Govt announces fivefold hike in stipend for handloom trainees

The Delhi Government has announced a fivefold increase in the monthly stipend for students pursuing handloom training at the Indian Institute of Handloom Technology (IIHT), Jodhpur.

The move, aimed at encouraging young artisans and preserving India’s handloom legacy, was announced by Industries Minister Manjinder Singh Sirsa on Sunday.

Under the revised plan, the additional state stipend will go up from Rs 400 to Rs 2,000 per month, and the educational book and tour allowance will rise from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 per year. The new rates will come into effect from the academic session 2025-26 and mark the first revision since 2009-10.

“This is a strategic investment in our youth and the timeless legacy of Indian handlooms. It’s not merely a revision of numbers, but a conscious step to strengthen the foundation on which our future artisans stand,” said Sirsa.

The enhanced stipend will be applicable to students in all three years of training, while the revised book and tour allowance will benefit those in the second and third years. The government has earmarked Rs 10 lakh in the 2025-26 Budget to implement the proposal under the ‘Promotion of Handloom’ scheme.

Highlighting the broader impact of the initiative, Sirsa said: “Even modest support, when thoughtfully directed, can empower students to complete their training with dignity and contribute meaningfully to the revival and modernisation of traditional crafts.”

Officials said the proposal aligns with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Rekha Gupta to promote heritage-based livelihoods while equipping youth with market-ready skills.