As another measure towards livelihood support activities during Covid period, the State Government has extended a number of direct and indirect carry-ups to the weavers, craftsman and artisans.
Products of worth Rs.132.29 cr were procured from them besides creation of 11 lakh man-days and extension of other schematic benefits. said Chief Secretary Asit Tripathy here on Monday,reviewing activities of the Textile Handloom and Handicraft Department during the Covid period.
He also directed the officials to create more livelihood opportunities through expansion of sericulture in convergence with MGNRSGS.
Development Commissioner Suresh Chandra Mohapatra said, “Asana and Arjuna plants are the natural feed for sericulture. These are forest species and hence can be planted in forest areas. Take up more such plantation.”
Department Secretary Subha Sharma said around 11 lakh man-days were generated through sericulture within April to September 2020 and the workers were paid around Rs.24.53 cr towards wages. Besides, around 4,400 people were provided direct employment in textile and apparel sector particularly through Shahi Exports and Aditya Birla groups. Out of them more than 87% were women. Around 1,267 elderly persons with at least 20 years of weaving experience were also provided financial assistance of Rs 500 to Rs 800 per month.