Lucknow, April 9: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that weavers are not only the bearers of tradition but also a strong pillar of the state’s economy. Therefore, ensuring their income, respect, and livelihood sustainability is a top priority for the state government.
He stated that weavers currently face challenges such as rising raw material costs, a lack of design and modern technology, and limited market access. These problems can be addressed not only through planned assistance, but also by developing a robust and coordinated system.
Chief Minister directed the development of a new, result-oriented, cluster-based action plan in this direction.
During a review meeting of the Handloom Department on Thursday, officials informed Chief Minister Yogi that approximately 1.99 lakh weavers are employed in the state. Uttar Pradesh ranks sixth in the country in this sector. The state is a leader in the production of carpets, rugs, and mats, while it also has a strong presence in products such as bedsheets, furnishings, and blankets. In 2024-25, the country’s total handloom exports stood at โน1,178.93 crore, with Uttar Pradesh contributing โน109.40 crore (approximately 9.27 percent).
The Chief Minister directed that clusters be identified in weaver-dominated areas and developed there to integrate production, quality, and marketing. He clarified that these clusters should not be limited to production alone but should develop into a complete value chain, ensuring design, branding, packaging, and market access within a single framework.
The meeting discussed in detail aspects such as cluster selection, baseline survey, preparation of detailed project reports (DPRs), effective implementation, and ongoing monitoring.
Chief Minister said that a limited number of weavers should be organized in each cluster and developed into registered units to promote collective production and marketing. Additionally, these clusters should be integrated with modern technology, advanced equipment, and skills training to improve the quality and competitiveness of products.
Emphasizing the need to strengthen design and marketing, the Chief Minister stated that product success is possible only if it meets market demand.
He directed the effective implementation of institutional mechanisms such as “Designer-cum-Marketing Executive” and “Design House/Sourcing-Buying Agency/Export House.” This will ensure improved product quality, access to larger markets, and increased income for weavers. The Chief Minister called for special attention to the expansion of digital platforms, e-commerce, and branding to connect weavers directly with consumers.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister also highlighted the need for greater efforts to reduce the electricity bills of powerloom weavers. Upon the Chief Minister’s direction, the Handloom Department and the Power Corporation will jointly develop an action plan in this regard.
Chief Minister emphasized the promotion of solar energy, stating that this would reduce weavers’ electricity costs and provide them long-term relief. He directed the development of an effective action plan in this direction.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the weaving community of Uttar Pradesh is a vital pillar of the state’s rich tradition, employment, and economy. Therefore, a balanced, transparent, and practical policy should be formulated that provides real relief to weavers, revitalizes the industry, and strengthens the state’s traditional weaving industry. Minister for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises and Khadi, Rakesh Sachan, along with departmental officials, were present at the meeting.