Gujarat Government Broadens Textile Policy to Include Urban Women's Groups
The Gujarat state government made a significant announcement on Sunday. It revealed that women's self-help groups operating within municipal corporation limits will now receive benefits under the 2024 textile policy. This move aims to boost urban employment and support small-scale industries.
Eligibility Criteria for Assistance
Units engaged in non-polluting textile activities can qualify for this assistance. These activities include garments, apparel, made-ups, stitching, embroidery, and other value-added processes. To be eligible, these units must fall under the White and Green categories of the Gujarat Pollution Control Board or similar classifications. They also need to be established within municipal corporation areas.
An official statement clarified the details. It emphasized that this expansion will help various women's self-help groups. Groups registered under the National Rural Livelihood Mission and the National Urban Livelihood Mission are included. Voluntary self-help groups with similar livelihood objectives will also benefit from the policy.
Expected Impact on Urban Employment and MSMEs
The government expects this initiative to create more jobs in urban locations. It will increase local employment opportunities for skilled and semi-skilled workers. The recognition of non-polluting textile activities in cities should foster a better environment for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises to grow.
Effective use of existing infrastructure in municipal corporation areas is another advantage. This approach can reduce production costs significantly. It will also enhance the competitiveness of self-help groups in the market.
Labour-intensive and non-polluting textile activities like garments and embroidery located in urban areas offer specific benefits. They provide more local employment opportunities for female workers. This focus on women's employment aligns with broader economic goals.
The policy update represents a strategic shift. It brings textile policy benefits directly to urban women's groups. This could lead to sustainable economic development in Gujarat's cities.
