AP roll out free power scheme for weavers

In a major relief measure aimed at reviving the struggling handloom sector, the Andhra Pradesh government led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced the implementation of a free electricity scheme for weavers across the state. The scheme, which comes into force from Wednesday, is being projected as a powerful economic boost for lakhs of weaving families.

Under the initiative, handloom units will receive up to 200 units of free electricity per month, while power loom units will be eligible for up to 500 units at no cost. The government has allocated an estimated Rs 150 crore annually for the scheme to ease the financial burden on traditional artisans.

Officials said the move is designed to address one of the biggest cost components in the weaving sector, electricity, thereby enhancing productivity and ensuring economic stability. “Electricity is a critical input for weaving, dyeing, and allied processes. By removing this burden, we are empowering weavers to sustain and grow their livelihoods,” Minister Savitha noted.

The scheme is expected to benefit a total of 1,04,488 families across Andhra Pradesh, including around 93,000 handloom households and 11,488 power loom units. Financially, the relief translates into annual savings of approximately Rs 8,640 for handloom workers and Rs 21,600 for power loom operators.

The government described the initiative as part of a broader strategy to revive the handloom sector, which had faced severe distress in recent years. Since assuming office, the administration has rolled out multiple support measures, including increasing pensions for weavers to Rs 4,000, allocating Rs 5 crore towards thrift funds for cooperative societies, and offering up to 90% subsidy on modern machinery.

Additionally, steps have been taken to ensure access to quality raw materials at subsidised rates, including a 15% rebate on yarn, along with financial support of Rs 10.44 crore for the development of small weaving clusters. In a bid to improve market access, the government has also facilitated direct sales through e-commerce platforms like Amazon and Flipkart.

With the scheme now in effect, the government expects a revival in handloom activity and renewed confidence among artisans, many of whom have struggled with rising input costs and declining margins in recent years.