Centre to nudge states for cheaper energy to power looms: Goyal

Weaving units in the powerloom sector may get electricity at ‘competitive prices’ as Union Power Ministry will discuss the matter with the states with a view to providing a level-playing field to such units.

Power Minister Piyush Goyal today gave assurance in this regard to Textiles Minister Smriti Irani at a meeting today, an official source said.

“The Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal will discuss providing a level-playing field to the units in powerloom sector with state governments. If they (states) agree, the decision may be soon be implemented,” a senior official who was present in the meeting said.

Goyal discussed power tariff and other issues faced by the powerloom sector in the meeting with Irani here.

In a tweet, Irani thanked Goyal for “assuring support in providing power at competitive prices to the weaving units in powerloom sector”.

“It was also decided that textiles industry associations will prepare a report in conjunction with the Government on technology upgradation for the powerloom sector,” the official said.

The meeting also had representatives from the textiles industry.

“Powerloom is lifeline of textile sector. Technology upgradation for the powerloom sector could be a gamechanger for the entire industry,” Confederation of Indian Textile Industry Secretary General Binoy said.