Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 24: The Samarth scheme has trained 4.32 lac beneficiaries and placed 3.20 lac in jobs, with over 88% being women, according to the ministry of Textiles. The scheme is making strides in gender-inclusive development by equipping women with skills in textile production and craftsmanship.

Implemented across India from Jammu and Kashmir to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands Samarth is transforming skill development and supporting the government’s push to modernise the textile sector, boost manufacturing, and strengthen India’s position as a global textile hub.

Union Textiles minister Giriraj Singh recently interacted with industry partners and beneficiaries from sectors such as handloom, jute, silk, and handicrafts. Beneficiaries shared success stories and highlighted how the scheme improved their livelihoods.

The minister underscored the textile sector’s role as one of the largest employment generators in the country and praised Samarth for creating job opportunities throughout the textile value chain, excluding spinning and weaving.

Industry stakeholders also discussed challenges, growth potential, and the need to further support skilled manpower.

Meanwhile, the number of textile startups recognised by DPIIT has been rising from 204 in 2020 to 765 in 2024 reflecting a growing spirit of innovation in the sector.