India?s textile policy seeks focus on handicraft

The new textiles policy will focus on a three-pronged approach to boost the growth of Indian handicraft sector, which is facing tough competition from international players. The approach involves incentivising expansion of production base for quality manufacturing of handicraft products used for interior decoration and lifestyle purposes.

?We are focusing on promoting premium handicraft products for the niche market along with preservation and protection of heritage and endangered crafts,? a senior Textile Ministry official told. The new policy aims to achieve $300 billion textiles exports by 2024-25 and envisages creation of additional 35 million jobs.

The Textiles Ministry is currently engaged in consultation with stakeholders including states and working out the financial implications of the policy with its finance counterpart.