Centre urges states to fast-track approvals for textile parks

Centre today urged the state governments to fast-track approvals in setting up of textile parks, which are expected to create 4.5 lakh jobs with an investment of Rs 30,000 crore.
"I would like to point out that there are difficulties in getting environmental clearances in several states. I would urge the state governments to show interest on this issue and expedite much-needed clearances," Textile Minister Gangwar said while addressing the state textile ministers conference.
The minister informed that till now, 72 textile parks have been sanctioned under the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP), which are expected to provide employment to 4.5 lakh people with an investment of Rs 30,000 crore.

"On textile parks, we need more cooperation from state governments. We find that in a number of cases, entrepreneurs are facing difficulties in getting land, in getting clearances, in getting electricity connection," Textiles Secretary S K Panda said.
Besides, the minister said a modified Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) will be introduced shortly.
"TUFS had earlier faced difficulties... We had appealed to the Prime Minister that the scheme should be continued in a more organised manner. Therefore, the government is coming out with a modified TUFS scheme, which will be unveiled shortly," Gangwar said.

TUFS is being revised to support employment generating and export oriented segments to meet challenges in global market, he said.

TUFS was introduced in 1999 to catalyse investments in all the sub-sectors of textiles and jute industry by way of 5 per cent interest reimbursement.
"We have assured the Prime Minister that apparel and garment units will be functional in every north-eastern state in the country by December. Each unit will be set up with an investment of Rs 18.18 crore, with land provided by respective state governments. We believe that the unit in every state will generate 1,500-2,000 jobs from December," Gangwar said.
During 2014-15, Cotton Corporation of India (CCI) procured over 46 lakh bales cotton from 341 centres across the country. This year too, the cotton production is good although Punjab is facing some difficulties. Cotton production is likely to be good this year as well.

The minister also spoke about the cotton production in the country, and said that for the first time, payments will be electronically transferred directly to bank accounts of cotton farmers.
Besides, he said, the government was making efforts to diversify jute products, especially through women self-help groups and has opened Common Facility Centres in Bihar, West Bengal and Assam.
On increasing silk production, he said an Integrated Silk Production Scheme (ISPS) has been started in the North-East states with an outlay of Rs 722 crore.