IIE develops handloom cluster at Haridwar

Indian Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE), a Central government organisation under the ministry of MSME, is developing a handloom cluster in the Mangalore area of Haridwar district under an integrated handloom development scheme in Uttarakhand — a move that would benefit over 400 weavers, mostly Muslims.

Under the scheme, IIE has roped in experts and is using software technology to enhance the designs and skills of these weavers, who mostly make bedsheets, shawls and towels from cashmilon.

“Through this project, we are trying to enhance the skills of our weavers as well as their designs. This is a three-year project which was initiated in 2008,” said Poonam Sinha, who heads the regional office of IIE here.

The total cost of developing the Mangalore cluster is around Rs 60 lakh, with the Centre contributing Rs 51.19 lakh and Rs 7.37 lakh coming from the state government’s kitty.

At the very beginning, IIE set up 32 self-help groups (SHGs) of these weavers and opened their bank accounts. Later, a federation under the aegis of the Mangalore Handloom Society was also created, to work as an umbrella organisation for the weavers. A yarn depot was set up at Mangalore for better supply of the raw material.

Besides, a special skill development programme has also been initiated for the weavers. Under this programme, Amir Ahmed — who has been trained at the Weaver Service Centre at Meerut — was chosen as the master trainer. The weavers are also being given managerial training.

For improving designs, the IIE has selected computer added text design (CATD) software. “Now, our next target is to set up a common facilitation centre (CFC), which will cost Rs 30 lakh,” said Sinha. The tendering process for the CFC has already started, she said.

To provide the weavers with exposure to varied markets, their products are being exhibited at places like Dilli Haat and national expos at various areas. “At the recent expo in Dehradun, Chief Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank appreciated the products of the Mangalore cluster,” said Sinha. In addition, buyers-sellers meets are also being conducted.