New Direction for Silk, Khadi, and Handloom Sectors: Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh Gives Important Instructions

Emphasis on design training and innovation to increase the income of weavers and artisans Instructions to create a special action plan to help entrepreneurs achieve an annual income of up to 5 lakh rupees Silk production, natural dyes, and export promotion to get a boost Raipur, June 12, 2026/Union Minister Mr. Giriraj Singh emphasized increasing silk production and directed departmental officials to prepare an effective action plan. He stated that handloom weavers, artisans, and craftspeople should be provided regular training related to design development to enhance the quality and market competitiveness of their products, thereby ensuring an increase in their income. A review meeting chaired by Union Textiles Minister Mr. Giriraj Singh was held today at the State Guest House (Pahuna). Raipur Lok Sabha MP Mr. Brijmohan Agarwal, Chairperson of Chhattisgarh Handicrafts Development Board Mrs. Shalini Rajput, Chairman of Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board Mr. Rakesh Pandey, President of Chhattisgarh State Handloom Development and Marketing Federation Mr. Bhojraj Dewangan, Secretary of Village Industries Department Mr. Rajesh Singh Rana, Managing Director of Chhattisgarh Mati Kala and Handicrafts Board Mr. Jaiprakash Maurya, Managing Director of Chhattisgarh Khadi and Village Industries Board Mrs. Leena Kamlesh Mandavi, and other senior officials were present. The Union Minister instructed officials to make special efforts through various schemes to help entrepreneurs in the rural and cottage industry sector achieve an annual income of up to 5 lakh rupees. He said that entrepreneurs working in the handloom and handicraft sectors should be connected with export agencies and encouraged to export their products, providing them access to national and international markets. The meeting also discussed the development of new products by incorporating other natural fibers into silk and cotton products, and exploring market expansion possibilities. The Union Minister directed the promotion of mixed farming of floriculture and vegetable production along with mulberry cultivation in silk centers, which will lead to additional income for silkworm rearers and farmers. He emphasized promoting the use of natural dyes in textile manufacturing, highlighting the need for increased use of colors derived from turmeric, katha, mehndi, and various flowers. He also gave instructions to work in collaboration with the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) to encourage innovation, modern design, and product development in the handloom sector. The meeting involved a detailed discussion on various measures for the overall development of the Khadi, Village Industries, Handloom, Handicraft, and Silk sectors, employment generation, and strengthening the rural economy.