Lakhs of weavers benefitted from state projects, says Amit Mitra

Kolkata: As many as 1.5 lakh weavers have benefitted through four integrated 'Tanter Haat' projects taken by the Bengal government across the state, State Commerce and Industries minister Amit Mitra said in the Assembly on Tuesday.

During his speech in the House, Mitra also stated that around 176 different clusters have been implemented in the state while a huge number of 'Tant Ghor' have been set up in various phases.

The process to revive Baluchori Saree has been taken up. An outlet has already been thrown open on the Park Street where Baluchori, Dhanekhali Sarees are on display for attracting the buyers.

The minister said through the implementation of various projects, around 5.83 mandays have been created by the state government.

It may be mentioned here that the Mamata Banerjee government has given a platform for the promotion of cotton industry of Bengal and markets have been created where the weavers can sell their products.

Fairs are being organised at different places so that the weavers can find buyers.

The minister told the House that Baluchori and Dhanekhali Saree have got GI certification. He also stated that some other products such as Rosogolla, Moya made in Joynagar, Sitabhog and Tulaipanji rice have received GI registration.

The amount of sale at Tantuja outlets has been increased manifold.

A loss-making organization has therefore transformed into a profit making organization. While addressing the House the minister shared some data saying: "During 2010-11, the loss of Tantuja had been estimated at Rs 12.6 crore while in the financial year of 2018-19 the organization has made a profit of Rs 14.37 crore. It had a turnover of Rs 252.88 crore in the last financial year."

Bengal government organizes a fair called 'Banglar Tanter Haat' from time to time where the weavers from across the state can showcase their amazing creations. The fair has been the centre of attraction for women, as various varieties of sarees and salwar and other traditional apparels are available here.

A similar fair was inaugurated by Swapan Debnath, the minister of micro, small and medium enterprise at Salt Lake Central Park on August 31.

The weavers across the state have been participating in the fair.