Employment, Textiles & Handlooms - Indian Budget 2006 – 2007 (59 - 62)

VII MANUFACTURING

Employment

59. The two sectors which have the potential to create a large number of jobs are manufacturing and services. In manufacturing, we have identified some industries which, with appropriate incentives, can throw up huge job opportunities. These include textiles, food processing, petroleum, chemicals and petro-chemicals, leather, and automobiles. In services, tourism and software can offer a large number of jobs.

Textiles

60. The last two Budgets have created an enabling environment for the growth of the textile industry, especially cotton textiles. There has been an encouraging response to the Technology Upgradation Fund (TUF) scheme. I propose to enhance the allocation from Rs.435 crore to Rs.535 crore next year. The Scheme for Integrated Textiles Parks (SITP) was launched in October 2005 with the intention of creating 25 textile parks. As on date, 7 parks have been sanctioned and 10 parks have been identified for development. I propose to provide Rs.189 crore for this scheme.

61. Government proposes to launch the Jute Technology Mission in 2006-07 to harness the potential of the golden fibre. A National Jute Board will be established. I propose to make a token provision with the assurance that the funds required will be made available once the outlay is finalized.

Handlooms

62. Several schemes, including schemes for life insurance and health insurance, were announced in the last Budget for the handloom sector. They are being implemented. The Cluster Development approach will continue. It is proposed to cover an additional 100 clusters at a cost of Rs.50 crore in 2006-07. Yarn depots will be established in different parts of the country to ensure uninterrupted supply of yarn to weavers. Just as ‘woolmark’ has gained recognition, it is proposed to launch a ‘handloom’ mark. A scheme similar to TUFS will be introduced for the handloom sector to provide interest subsidy on term loans. I propose to increase the provision for the handloom sector from Rs.195 crore to Rs.241 crore next year.