Saree distribution under Indira Mahila Shakti scheme set to begin by mid-November

Hyderabad: Telangana will begin distributing Indira Mahila Shakti sarees across the state by mid-November, Handloom and Textiles Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao announced on Friday. He said this marks a major step in the Congress government’s support for the handloom sector.

Following a review meeting at the Secretariat with Principal Secretary Sailaja Ramaiyar and senior Textiles Tesco officials, Tummala revealed key production figures. The scheme aims to distribute 64,69,192 sarees. To fulfil this, around 4.34 crore meters of fabric are needed. Power loom workers have already produced 3.65 crore meters. So far, 33.35 lakh sarees have reached district warehouses.

Indira Mahila Shakti saree distribution generates stable income for weavers

Tummala emphasized that the program has provided steady employment for nearly 6,900 weavers. These workers have been engaged in saree production for the past six to eight months. They currently earn monthly wages ranging from ₹18,000 to ₹22,000.

He directed officials to finish all remaining production and logistics by November 15. The sarees must be moved to district godowns in time for distribution.

Additionally, the Minister ordered speedy action on the handloom loan waiver scheme. He asked officials to complete verification quickly and deposit funds directly. Under this initiative, 6,780 handloom workers will receive waivers on personal loans up to ₹1 lakh.

Tummala also reviewed the relocation of the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology. He directed officials to shift the institute from its temporary base in Hyderabad to the Pochampally Handloom Park in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district without delay.