Union Textile Minister Smriti Irani has said that Indian textiles sector is always looking for subsidy, but one should not forget that subsidy is taxpayers’ money.
Organised by Indian Chamber of Commerce, in discussion with industry, she insisted that the textiles industry should commercialise opportunities as it did in PPE product category.
While discussing various issues with the minister, many textile and industry players also said that after availing the subsidy, several promoters of these parks have run away.
The issue regarding textile parks was also raised in the discussion. “At the time of UPA rule, no role was envisaged for State Governments. If employment opportunities are to be raised, the State Governments need to oversee the functioning of these parks,” the minister said.
Ajit Lakra, MD, Superfine Knitters Limited, Ludhiana who is also associated with many trade associations told Apparel Resources, “We have raised issue of moratorium wherein the date needs to be extended from 31 August to 31 March 2021 so that the textile unit can revive.”
Various issues regarding Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS) were also discussed by the industry stakeholders. These stakeholders said that as far as import of second-hand machinery is concerned, all applicants of ATUFS should not face the heat and things should move in a time-bound manner.
In another webinar of Panjab University, the minister said that women need to be made aware about access to capital and access to skills.
