Handloom development project has been jointly launched by the Department of Textile Development and the Ministry of Textile Development to develop handloom sector as a self-employment project and create it as a recognized industry in Sri Lanka.
At present the Department of Textile Development opened 15 handloom-training centers in Central, Western, and Southern provinces to train school leavers and housewives to produce value added handloom products to acquire bigger stake in Sri Lanka as well as in the global markets.
The ministry plans to expand its development activities even in the non-government controlled areas in Sri Lanka, but the security situation is a barrier to launch the project.
The Department of handloom industries will be allocating handloom-weaving machines to trainees after their six-month training period and the government Institutions will place their handloom orders, specially curtains, office linen materials and needy products to these trainees. The raw material to fulfill the order will also be provided under a concessionary plan by the ministry.
Currently, most of the handloom weavers weave bridal ware to earn additional income. As the handloom is a fast growing industry and not facing any global competition now.
The Department of Handloom Industries has plans to introduce various designs and world-class products, which can be produced locally.
