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The handloom industry in Telangana, a crucial sector after agriculture, faced neglect and difficulties due to policies by Andhra rulers.
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Economic reforms led to a scarcity of Chiluva Silk/Yarn, the main raw material, making it hard to obtain in the market.
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The State government removed a 10% subsidy on Yarn, adding to the industry’s challenges.
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The Central Government imposed an excise tax on cotton and synthetics, causing a significant increase in yarn prices.
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Prices for dyes and chemicals also escalated, leading to irreparable damage to the handloom sector.
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Weavers faced financial distress, taking out high-interest loans and incurring heavy debts, with many unable to repay and resorting to suicide.
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The Siricilla region, known as “Uricilla,” is a notable center for handloom production in Telangana.
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In 2004, the YSR government formed a committee led by K. Rosaiah to address weaver issues, which proposed 14 recommendations that were largely ignored by the government.
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Attempts to support weavers through APCO (Andhra Pradesh State Handloom Weavers Cooperative Society) were largely unsuccessful.
