2 lakh textile workers jobless since 1996-97

New Delhi, Aug 2 (UNI) Altogether 211,108 workers on the rolls of 379 private textile mills were rendered unemployed following their closure during the past 10 years.

Minister of State for Textiles EVKS Elangovan told the Rajya Sabha that under the existing Textile Workers Rehabilitation Fund Scheme (TWFRS) relief is given to textile workers irrespective of whether they are permanent, badli or casual provided they meet the elgibility criteria such as five years or more continuous service before the closure, figuring in the records of Regional Provident Fund Commissioner, drawing wage equivalent up to Rs 3,500 a month.

Regarding funds generated from the sale of land and assets of the closed NTC mills, the Minister said in a written reply that the funds were being utilised as per the laid down directions of Board for Industrial and Financial Reconstruction (BIFR).

As per the directions, the funds generated are to be utilised in revival or modernisation of viable mills, repayment of bonds, settlement of claims of secured creditors, and payment to workers under the Modified Voluntary Retirement Scheme.

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