At the golden jubilee of Andhra Pradesh State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society Limited (APCO) in Mangalagiri,Minister S. Savitha rolled out welfare initiatives for handloom weavers. Key among these was the fast-tracked launch of 'Nethanna Bharosa' scheme and settling ₹6.50 crore in pending dues to cooperatives.
On July 15,₹4 crore will be released for dues on blankets and other supplies given to welfare hostels. ₹2.50 crore more for general handloom products follows in early August. Savitha stressed the government's year-round employment promise for weavers under Nethanna Bharosa.
To cut production costs,government's looking to supply yarn Savitha pointed to reforms boosting APCO's finances and market reach. Digital transformation's even snagged SKOCH Award for them .
Adapting to consumer trends,APCO's added ready-made handloom garments. Training's underway to sharpen weavers' garment skills. And hikes in weaving,dyeing,bleaching fees should lift incomes. Savitha noted Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan,and Minister Nara Lokesh are promoting handloom products as brand ambassadors.
Special Chief Secretary R.P. Sisodia emphasized focus on skill development and market-driven initiatives to bolster APCO. During the event,Minister honored handloom cooperative representatives and gave retirement benefits to former APCO staff . A big day for the community. But how long will these changes last…
