Tamil Nadu increases weaving rates for Pongal clothing scheme

The Tamil Nadu government has increased weaving rates for workers producing free dhotis and sarees for the upcoming Pongal festival distribution scheme. The decision follows requests from weavers in Erode, who cited rising costs for electricity, labor, building rents, and loom spare parts.

For powerloom production, the rate for dhotis has increased from 11 paise to 14 paise per pick, while saree rates rose from 12.5 paise to 13 paise per pick. The government has set the weaving wage for a complete dhoti at Rs 19.04 and for a saree at Rs 45.76.

For pedal looms, the rates are fixed at 27.20 paise per pick for dhotis and 27.76 paise for sarees. Handloom weavers will also see higher payments, with saree charges increasing from Rs 231.80 to Rs 260.39 and dhoti rates rising from Rs 96.13 to Rs 107.76.

The state plans to provide free clothing to 2.25 crore ration cardholders. Production orders include 1.74 crore dhotis and 1.53 crore sarees via powerlooms, alongside additional quantities through pedal and handlooms. The government has allocated Rs 300 crore as an advance for this production.