Handloom and Khadi Weavers Financial Benefit Scheme: Supply of Yarn to Societies etc. at Subsidized Rate

Handloom and Khadi Weavers Financial Benefit Scheme: Supply of Yarn to Societies etc. at Subsidized Rate is a scheme by the Government of West Bengal that helps local artisans by giving them yarn at discounted rates. It supports primary weavers' cooperative societies, khadi societies, and individual weavers so that traditional weaving crafts stay alive and keep growing through direct material subsidies.

This sub-scheme is part of the West Bengal Handloom and Khadi Weavers Financial Benefit Scheme 2024, which was launched by the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise and Textiles Department on 7th March, 2024. It remains in force for five years from the date of notification, so it is still open for eligible weavers and societies in 2026.

Handloom and Khadi Weavers Financial Benefit Scheme: Supply of Yarn to Societies etc. at Subsidized Rate

The scheme aims to lower the cost of raw material for weavers. Under this component, handloom societies get yarn from Tantuja at a 10% discounted rate, while registered khadi societies get a 10% discount on roving or high-count cotton fibre from WBKVIB. This helps reduce production costs and improves income for individual artisans and societies across the state.

This support does not apply to yarn procured under the NHDP Scheme. The scheme is implemented and monitored by the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise and Textiles Department of the Government of West Bengal, with the Directorate of Textiles acting as the nodal agency for the handloom sector.

Key Information

Benefits

This scheme provides clear support to keep weaving activities profitable and sustainable. The main benefits are given below.

Note: These benefits do not apply to yarn procured under the NHDP Scheme.

Eligibility

Eligible people can apply for support under this scheme if they fall into one of these categories.

Handloom Weavers: This includes master weavers, individual weavers, allied workers, cooperative members, and those working in handloom clusters.

Khadi Weavers: Active artisans who are engaged in professional khadi production.

Application Process

An eligible PWCS, khadi society, or individual weaver can apply either online or offline in the prescribed format before the Director of Textiles. The steps are given below.

STEP 1 - Prepare the required documents, including a recent passport size photo, a valid Aadhaar card, and proof that you are a professional handloom or khadi weaver.

STEP 2 - Fill the application in the prescribed format as notified by the department and submit it to the Director of Textiles, either online or offline.

STEP 3 - A district level committee scrutinises the claim, carries out field enquiry where needed, and recommends the claim to the Director of Textiles or the CEO of WBKVIB for approval.

STEP 4 - After approval, the benefit is released as per the norms set by the State Level Committee.

Helpdesk: For contact details of the district offices, visit the official Directorate of Textiles website.

Documents

Make sure you have the following documents ready before applying.

1. Recent passport size photo.
2. Valid Aadhaar card.
3. Documentary proof of being a professional handloom or khadi weaver.
4. Any other supporting documents asked by the department.

Definitions

Tantuja: This is the State Apex Cooperative Society responsible for marketing handloom products produced by the PWCS.

Source: Read official guidelines here.

References

Official Scheme Guidelines PDF

Directorate of Textiles Schemes Page

FAQ's

What is the definition of PWCS?

PWCS stands for Primary Weavers' Cooperative Societies, which are organisations registered under the West Bengal Cooperative Societies Act.

What is Tantuja?

Tantuja acts as the State Apex Cooperative Society for marketing high-quality handloom products produced by various local cooperatives.

Which department manages this scheme?

This scheme is implemented and monitored by the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise and Textiles Department of the West Bengal Government.

How does the department handle application claims?

A specialised committee reviews all submitted proposals, conducts field enquiries where necessary, and makes recommendations to the Director of Textiles or the CEO of WBKVIB for approval.

What happens if false information is provided?

Providing false information or misrepresenting facts will result in the immediate revocation of claims under the scheme.

Can I apply if I already receive benefits from another scheme?

Yes, if you have previously received incentives under other government programs, you remain eligible to apply for benefits under this scheme.

What defines a Society and a Khadi Society?

A society typically includes PWCS, Handloom Clusters, and JLG groups. A Khadi Society is an organisation registered under the Cooperative Societies Act, Partnership Firm, or Company Act that is actively engaged in khadi production.

How can I file a grievance?

If you disagree with a decision from the Directorate of Textiles, you should address your grievance to the Principal Secretary of the Department of MSME&T, Government of West Bengal.

What is the overall goal of this scheme?

The main goal is to lower production costs for weavers by providing subsidized yarn, thereby increasing overall income for individual artisans and societies across the state.

How long will this scheme be active?

The scheme commenced on 7th March, 2024, and it is set to remain in force for a duration of five years.