ECONOMIC TRENDS

COTTAGE INDUSTRIES

Some indigenous cottoge industries are a source of livelihood to a considerable section of people of the district. They also keep the cultivators occupied during periods of forced unemployment. The main cottage industries are yarn spinning, hand-loom weaving, blanket weaving, rope and twine making, mat and basket making and making of brass and copper utensils. "Brass industry of Bhir district is well-known for distinctive products like utensils, water bottles and walking-stick handles." [Master Plan for Industrialisation of Bombay State, 1960.]

"Handloom weaving is the most important of all the cottage industries and is next only to agriculture in importance and usefulness, as a natural occupation." [Census Report: Hyderabad State, 1941]

The leather tanning industry is also a promising cottage industry in the district. The requisite raw, materials, such as, raw hides, ghatbori fruits and tarad bark and lime are available in plenty. At present, it is run on traditional lines. Adoption of new techniques, availability of institutional finance and sale through co-operative societies will put the industry on a sound footing.

"Various steps have been taken by government for reviving and improving these (cottage) industries. A central technical institute has been set up to train weavers, dyers and other artisans in up-to-date methods of their crafts."

"Particular attention has been paid by the government to the improvement of the position of handloom weavers and for this purpose they are (a) taught improved methods of production; (b) provided with loans at (i) low rate of interest, and (ii) repayable in easy instalments; (c) supplied with raw materials on credit; (d) kept in touch with the changing tastes and fashions; and finally, helped in finding sales for their products.” [Census Report: Hyderabad State, 1941.]

Recently small-scale and cottage industries have been receiving encouragement from the government. The department of industries formulated a master plan for industrialisation in 1960. The organised industries are extended the requisite facilities for growth. The cottage industries are given assistance in the form of financial and technical aid, and training facilities, subsidy on production and sale of products through co-operative organisations. Industrial Estates have been established at Parali-Vaijnath. This will definitely facilitate the development of small industrial units. Some more industrial estates are also proposed to be established in the district. That will further encourage the growth of industries.