
BANGALORE: Destitute weavers in the state can hope for roofs above their heads soon, assured Chief Minister B S Yeddyurappa on Tuesday. "We have provided 5,000 weavers with homes. Soon, we would like to build homes for other poor weavers, too," said Yeddyurappa, during his inaugural address at the state convention of Karnataka Padmashali Sangha.
He also pointed out that the government has earmarked Rs 32 crore for the welfare of weavers this financial year - a `10crore increase from 200809. "You can also benefit a lot from the microfinance scheme, as the interest rate is only four per cent," remarked the Chief Minister. The recentlylaunched scheme is targeted at workers in the unorganised sector and selfhelp groups in the state.
In another moraleboosting announcement for state weavers, Yeddyurappa said, "By 2013, we are planning to offer employment to five lakh weavers." At the same time, he stressed on the need for them to educate their children. "The whole world is watching us. Even US President Barack Obama, during his recent visit, predicted India's rise on the world stage in near future. So, it's imperative that you all educate your children," he added.
Expressing happiness over the Bhagyalakshmi Scheme - for free distribution of saris to mothers of girl children - the Chief Minister said, "So far, we have distributed about 12 lakh saris across the state. Unfortunately, we still have to procure saris from other states, such as Gujarat. If you increase production in our state, we don't have to look outside Karnataka."
The event was also attended by Minister for Home R Ashoka, who released a souvenir, Congress MLA Dinesh Gundu Rao and businessman Nalli Kuppuswamy Chettiar, who was honoured for his contribution to the textile industry. On the occasion, a monthly magazine, Padmanjali, was also launched.