The Telangana government has introduced a significant welfare initiative, the Telangana Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam, aimed at ensuring the socio-economic development of handloom weavers across the state. Announced by the Hon’ble Chief Minister during the launch of the Konda Lakshman Bapuji Indian Institute of Handloom Technology on September 9, 2024, this program focuses on improving the lives of handloom artisans through structured schemes and financial assistance.
Understanding the Telangana Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam
This initiative is a comprehensive strategy to boost the welfare of handloom weavers while addressing their financial and social challenges. Below is an overview of its components, guidelines, and budget allocations.
Key Objectives of the Program
- Welfare of Weavers: Ensure the overall development of handloom weavers through financial support, insurance coverage, and wage incentives.
- Sustainable Growth: Promote the long-term sustainability of the handloom industry by addressing challenges faced by artisans.
- Inclusive Implementation: Operate within the allocated budget to ensure maximum impact without financial strain on the state.
Budget Allocation for 2024-2025
The Telangana government has approved specific schemes under the Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam, with an overall allocation planned for efficient utilization. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Telangana Nethanna Podhupu (Thrift Fund)
- Estimated Budget: ₹115.00 Crores
- Available Budget: ₹15.00 Crores
- Components:
- Handloom-related schemes (₹100.00 Crores).
- Power loom components and arrears (₹15.00 Crores).
2. Telangana Nethanna Bhadratha (Nethanna Bheema)
- Estimated Budget: ₹9.00 Crores
- Available Budget: ₹5.25 Crores
- Focus: Insurance and financial security for weavers and their families.
3. Telangana Nethannaku Barosa
- Estimated Budget: ₹48.80 Crores
- Available Budget: ₹31.00 Crores
- Sub-scheme:
- Wage Incentive (₹44.00 Crores with ₹31.00 Crores available).
Guidelines for Implementation
The government has outlined structured guidelines for implementing the Telangana Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam to maximize its impact:
- Target Beneficiaries: The schemes prioritize active weavers associated with handloom and power loom sectors.
- Accountability: The Commissioner of Handlooms & Textiles, Hyderabad, is responsible for overseeing the execution of the program.
- Financial Transparency: All schemes are to be executed within the existing budget allocation for the fiscal year 2024-2025.
Strategic Benefits for Handloom Weavers
The Telangana Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam is more than just a financial aid program; it represents a vision for a better future for the handloom community. The benefits include:
- Improved Financial Stability: Direct financial support to weavers ensures economic security.
- Enhanced Livelihood Opportunities: The wage incentive scheme encourages higher productivity and rewards the artisans’ efforts.
- Insurance Protection: Initiatives like Nethanna Bheema provide critical safety nets for weavers and their families.
Commitment to Excellence
Under the directive of the Telangana government, the Commissioner of Handlooms & Textiles is tasked with ensuring the seamless implementation of the Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam. This involves maintaining accountability, ensuring timely disbursements, and addressing challenges faced by the beneficiaries.
Conclusion
The Telangana Chenetha Abhayahastha Padakam is a transformative step towards empowering handloom weavers and preserving the state’s rich textile heritage. By prioritizing the welfare of artisans and allocating substantial resources, Telangana reaffirms its commitment to uplifting its handloom sector.
As this initiative takes root, the state envisions a thriving handloom industry that not only sustains livelihoods but also preserves traditional craftsmanship for generations to come.
