Our Bureau

Hyderabad , Aug. 23

AN expert committee looking into weavers' problems in Andhra Pradesh has suggested restructuring of APCO (Andhra Pradesh State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society) board and infusion of Rs 50 crore, while making a case for a new textile policy.

Headed by Mr K. Rosaiah, Minister for Finance and Health, the committee was set up by the Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy last year.

The committee submitted its report to the Chief Minister on Sunday and asked the Government to revamp APCO Board to make it a professional body overseeing commercial and export activities of member societies.

Besides handing over responsibilities to "sound professional management system", the revamp should ensure accountability at all levels, it said.

The committee also suggested an equity contribution of Rs 50 crore to offset accumulated losses, along with additional assistance of Rs 1 crore for renovation of showrooms and another Rs 1 crore as subsidy for purchase of dyes and chemicals.

It also suggested a franchisee model to improve sales.

Of the 1.74 lakh handloom weavers in the State, about 92,000 were in the cooperative sector.

The committee called for a new textile policy to create and support employment for 15 lakh people, and increase imports from Rs 384 crore to Rs 7,200 crore.

It recommended the formation of self-help groups for women weavers and financial assistance at four per cent.

Referring to suicides in weavers' families, the committee felt that the next of kin should be given financial assistance similar to the assistance given to the farming community.

The committee also asked the Government to help weavers' societies obtain Geographical Indications (GIs).

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