The Telangana Nethanna Bima Scheme 2023 was officially launched on the auspicious occasion of National Handloom Day, 7th August 2022. This scheme, initiated by the Telangana government, aims to provide insurance coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakh to the families of weavers. Let’s delve into the comprehensive details of this remarkable initiative.
Introduction to Nethanna Bima Scheme 2023
The Nethanna Bima Scheme was unveiled by the Chief Minister of Telangana, K Chandrashekhar Rao, who extended warm greetings to the weavers on the National Handloom Day. He emphasized the state government’s commitment to the welfare of weavers and highlighted various schemes implemented for their benefit. Notably, the Nethanna Bima Scheme stands out as a unique and exclusive initiative for weavers in the country, aiming to provide insurance coverage to around 80,000 weaver families.
Rs. 5 Lakh Insurance Coverage for Weavers in Telangana
One of the key features of the Nethanna Bima Scheme is the provision of a Rs. 5 lakh insurance for weavers’ families in case of an eligible beneficiary’s demise. This financial assurance offers a significant relief to both handloom and power loom weaver families. Chief Minister KCR emphasized that the scheme exemplifies the government’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of its people. In addition, he criticized the central government for imposing higher taxes on handloom and power loom sectors, adversely affecting the weavers.
Premium Amount and Implementation
To execute the Nethanna Beema Scheme efficiently, the Telangana government has collaborated with the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India. The state’s Department of Handlooms and Textiles has been appointed as the nodal agency for implementing the scheme. Notably, the government will bear the annual premium on behalf of the beneficiaries, further easing the burden on weaver families.
Advocating for Weavers’ Welfare
In a gesture of unity, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) MLC highlighted the combined efforts of both the state and central governments in promoting the welfare of weavers on the National Handloom Day. He pointed out that no previous government had imposed taxes on handlooms until the Modi government initiated a 5% tax on handloom products. In light of this, the MLC urged the central government to reconsider this tax and even requested the implementation of a zero GST on handlooms.
The Beneficiaries of Nethanna Bima Scheme
With approximately 1 lakh weavers currently working in the Handloom and Textile industry, the Telangana government has taken a significant step to support them. If any weaver dies, the state government has committed to providing Rs. 5 lakh to their nominees as financial assistance. Chintakindi Mallesham, a renowned weaver and recipient of the Padma Shri award, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Telangana CM KCR for introducing this scheme for the welfare of weavers.
Celebrating National Handloom Day
In India, the National Handloom Day is celebrated on August 7 every year to acknowledge and appreciate the valuable contributions of handloom weavers across the nation. In 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hosted the first National Handloom Day celebration in Chennai, further emphasizing the importance of this ancient craft.
In conclusion, the Telangana Nethanna Bima Scheme 2023 is a groundbreaking initiative that reflects the state government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of weavers. By providing substantial insurance coverage to weaver families, the scheme offers a safety net and financial stability during difficult times. Additionally, on the occasion of National Handloom Day, it becomes crucial for both state and central governments to work collaboratively in nurturing and preserving the rich tradition of handloom weaving in India. With the Nethanna Bima Scheme, Telangana sets an example for other states to follow in supporting and uplifting the weaver community.