Union PMO minister assures TUF scheme extension

Kolhapur, Feb 17: Union Minister in Prime Minister's Office (PMO) Prathviraj Chavan has assured that efforts would be made for the extension of the textile upgradation fund (TUF) scheme for another five years.

''Textile is a very important sector to boost the economic growth of our nation. It also creates job opportunities and has helped the nation to face the world market competition successfully, hence TUF scheme will play a major role in this connection,'' Mr Chavan said.

Speaking at an inaugural function of the 'World Textile Parishad', organised to celebrate the Silver Jubilee year of Dattajirao Kadam Textile Institute (DKTI) at powerloom town Ichalkaranji yesterday, the minister said under the technology mission cotton plan some 250 new modern market yards would be developed at the cost of Rs 450 crore.

About five lakh people will get job opportunities as some more textile parks will be built, he said.

The minister said that efforts would also be made to give National Technical Institute (NTI) status to DKTI, which is contributing in the textile education and research works.

The three-day Parishad is being attended by representatives of seven countries, besides a large number of representatives from India.

UNI