Handlooms and Textiles Minister S Savitha announced that the Union Government has approved a Small Cluster Development Programme (SCDP) for Hindupur, aimed at creating employment and offering garment-making training to 292 local weavers.
Savitha, accompanied by Hindupur MLA Nandamuri Balakrishna, reviewed the SCDP arrangements at the State Secretariat. Handlooms Commissioner Rekharani said the project carries an outlay of Rs. 1.51 crore (US $ 170,000), of which Rs. 1.44 crore (US $ 162,000) will come from the Centre and Rs. 7.12 lakh (US $ 8029) from beneficiary contributions, under the National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP).
Rekharani explained that the initiative is designed to generate livelihoods while equipping weavers with skills to produce garments aligned with current market trends. MLA Balakrishna added that expert-led training would ensure handloom products match consumer preferences, emphasising that the scheme would help secure a dignified living for weavers.
Hindupur, located in Andhra Pradesh’s Sri Sathya Sai district, has long been known for its handloom tradition, particularly cotton weaving and garment production. The town forms part of the wider Rayalaseema textile belt, where handlooms and small-scale units contribute significantly to local employment and cultural heritage.
