The Powerloom Development & Export Promotion Council (PDEXCIL) plays a pivotal role in guiding powerloom exporters through the myriad of government schemes designed to bolster the textile industry in India. Established by the Ministry of Textiles in 1995, PDEXCIL’s primary mission is to promote, support, and develop the powerloom sector, thereby enhancing the export of powerloom fabrics and made-ups. Through a series of educational initiatives, workshops, and direct assistance, PDEXCIL ensures that exporters are well-informed about schemes such as the Group Insurance Scheme (GIS), Integrated Scheme for Powerloom Sector Development (ISPSD), and the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS).

Group Insurance Scheme (GIS): Safeguarding the Workforce

The Group Insurance Scheme is a welfare initiative aimed at providing financial security to powerloom workers. Recognizing the vulnerabilities associated with the sector, the government, in collaboration with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), introduced this scheme to offer insurance coverage against natural and accidental deaths, as well as permanent disabilities.

Under GIS, the Government of India contributes ₹290 per worker annually, ensuring that even the economically weaker sections have access to insurance benefits. This initiative not only provides a safety net for workers but also enhances their morale and productivity.

PDEXCIL plays a crucial role in the dissemination of information regarding GIS. The council organizes workshops and seminars to educate both employers and employees about the benefits of the scheme, the enrollment process, and the claims procedure. By facilitating this knowledge transfer, PDEXCIL ensures that a larger segment of the workforce is covered under GIS, thereby promoting a more secure working environment.

Integrated Scheme for Powerloom Sector Development (ISPSD): Comprehensive Growth

The ISPSD was launched with the objective of achieving holistic development in the powerloom sector. This scheme encompasses various components, each tailored to address specific challenges and promote growth. Key components include:

1. Marketing Development Programme: To enhance the market reach of powerloom products, this component facilitates the organization of Buyer-Seller Meets (BSMs), exhibitions, and workshops. These events provide a platform for manufacturers to showcase their products, understand market trends, and establish business linkages. Between April and November 2014, twelve BSMs were conducted, with a fund allocation of ₹1.31 crores. Additionally, 30 seminars and workshops were organized during the same period, receiving ₹0.20 crores in funding.

2. Exposure Visits: Recognizing the importance of learning from advanced clusters, ISPSD sponsors visits for powerloom weavers to developed regions. These visits expose weavers to modern technologies, diversified products, and innovative marketing techniques, fostering knowledge exchange and capacity building.

3. Common Facility Centers (CFCs): To support small and medium enterprises, CFCs are established, offering shared infrastructure such as design studios, testing facilities, training centers, and raw material depots. These centers operate on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, ensuring sustainability and community involvement.

4. Group Workshed Scheme (GWS): Aimed at promoting the establishment of powerloom parks equipped with modern machinery, GWS provides financial assistance for constructing worksheds. As of November 2014, 102 projects had been approved, covering an area of 32.02 lakh square feet, with a total subsidy release of ₹29.74 crores.

PDEXCIL’s involvement in ISPSD is multifaceted. The council collaborates with the Office of the Textile Commissioner to organize BSMs and workshops, ensuring that stakeholders are aware of the scheme’s benefits and procedures. By publishing newsletters and disseminating valuable market information, PDEXCIL keeps exporters informed about upcoming events, policy changes, and opportunities under ISPSD.

Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS): Modernizing the Industry

Launched to catalyze the modernization of the textile industry, TUFS provides financial support for upgrading technology and machinery. The scheme offers various subsidies, including:

• 15% Margin Money Subsidy: Targeted at the powerloom sector, this subsidy encourages small-scale units to adopt modern looms and equipment, enhancing productivity and quality.

• 20% and 30% Margin Money Subsidy: These higher subsidies are available for specific segments within the textile industry, promoting advanced technological adoption and competitiveness.

PDEXCIL’s role in promoting TUFS is instrumental. The council conducts training programs and awareness campaigns to educate entrepreneurs about the application process, eligibility criteria, and benefits of the scheme. By providing technical consultancy and support, PDEXCIL assists units in preparing project reports, facilitating bank linkages, and ensuring compliance with scheme guidelines. This proactive approach has led to increased participation from the powerloom sector, driving technological advancement and global competitiveness.

PDEXCIL’s Broader Initiatives

Beyond these specific schemes, PDEXCIL undertakes a range of activities to bolster the powerloom sector:

• International Exhibitions: Facilitating participation in global textile exhibitions under schemes like the Market Development Assistance (MDA) and Market Access Initiative (MAI), PDEXCIL offers subsidized rates to members, enabling them to showcase their products on international platforms.

• Design Studio at Erode: With financial assistance from the Government of India, PDEXCIL has established a design studio in Erode. This facility provides training, addresses skill gaps, and fosters innovation in textile designs, ensuring that Indian powerloom products remain competitive in global markets.

• Skill Development Programs: Through its regional office in Erode, PDEXCIL conducts skill development training under the Integrated Skill Development Scheme (ISDS). These programs aim to enhance the technical proficiency of weavers, promoting the adoption of modern techniques and improving product quality.

Altus Exports: Partnering for Global Expansion

While PDEXCIL provides the necessary support and information to navigate government schemes, entering international markets requires strategic partnerships. Altus Exports stands as a reliable ally for Indian.

Success Stories: Indian Powerloom Exporters Thriving with PDEXCIL’s Support

Membership Benefits: How Joining PDEXCIL Can Boost Your Powerloom Export Business

Infrastructure Support: The Role of PDEXCIL in Establishing Common Facility Centers and Yarn Banks

Market Intelligence: PDEXCIL’s Publications and Newsletters as Tools for Export Growth

Navigating Government Schemes: PDEXCIL’s Guidance for Powerloom Exporters

Design Innovation: How PDEXCIL’s Design Studio in Erode is Transforming Powerloom Products

Skill Development Initiatives by PDEXCIL: Enhancing Competitiveness of Indian Powerloom Exporters

Bridging Buyers and Sellers: The Impact of PDEXCIL’s Buyer-Seller Meets

Global Exposure: PDEXCIL’s Participation in International Textile Exhibitions

Empowering Exporters: PDEXCIL’s Role in Facilitating International Trade for Powerloom Products