Bhubaneswar, Aug. 7: The state government today launched a special scheme here to provide aid to elderly weavers on National Handloom Day.
Chief minister Naveen Patnaik launched the scheme at a state-level programme. The scheme envisages a monthly financial assistance of Rs 500 for weavers above 60 years of age, while those above 80 will receive a monthly aid of Rs 700. The amount will be directly credited to their bank accounts.
According to sources, the scheme will benefit around 8,000 weavers.
"Handloom is one the state's biggest treasures. The scheme aims to recognise the contributions of the state's veteran weavers. We are also working towards promoting the legacy among the younger generation of weavers in Odisha," Naveen said during the launch.
Naveen also felicitated a few weavers' co-operative societies that have been working in the field for over 75 years. They were also given a cash reward of Rs 1 lakh. The societies that were felicitated include Routpada of Khurda and Nabapatana and Badabag of Jagatsinghpur. Societies that had registered record production and sales in the past one year were also felicitated.
Sunita Guin, president of Maa Tarini Mahila Weavers' Co-operative Society, received a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh on behalf of her society. The 270 women weavers of this society produce over 900 khandua saris a month.
"We want to use the money for design development. Most of our designs are traditional. Newer styles will help bring freshness to this age-old tradition," she said.
Sashodev Meher, secretary of Mahalaxmi Weavers' Co-operative Society, received a cash award of Rs 1 lakh on behalf of the society.
Lamenting the threat that hangs over the famous Sambalpuri saris, caused as a result of duplication by mill owners based outside the state, Meher said: "We have written several times to the state government but, we have received no help yet. We want legal action to be taken. We are facing heavy losses."
The traditional hand-woven fabric had received the Geographical Indication tag in 2012. An exposition was also organised where handloom products produced by national award-winning weavers from the state was displayed.
