Hathkargha Samvardhan Sahayata — 90% Subsidy for Odisha Weavers — Frequently Asked Questions

It is a handloom subsidy that helps weavers in Odisha modernise their equipment. The scheme puts money towards the technological up-gradation of looms and the accessories used with them, so that fabric quality and output both improve. It was launched on National Handloom Day, 7 August 2016, and is administered in the state by the Directorate of Textiles and Handicrafts, Government of Odisha.

The scheme covers up to 90% of the cost of the technological up-gradation items, which include looms and essential accessories. The remaining 10% of the cost is contributed by the beneficiary. There is no single fixed rupee amount, because the assistance is calculated against the actual cost of the equipment being upgraded.

No. The assistance is a subsidy, not a loan, so it does not need to be repaid. Nothing is exchanged in return either — it is a direct subsidy on the cost of the equipment rather than an investment that takes equity.

You need to be a resident of Odisha and actively working as a handloom weaver. You must also have completed weaving training within the last two years under a government programme — Block Level Clusters count — and you must be willing to fund 10% of the total cost of the up-gradation.

The scheme's stated eligibility does not include a DPIIT or MSME registration requirement. What it asks for is Odisha residency, active handloom weaving work, training completed in the last two years under a government programme, and a willingness to contribute 10% of the cost.

No. HSS runs on a rolling basis and stays open, so there is no fixed deadline to beat. You can approach your local Handloom Department office in Odisha whenever you are ready to apply.

It applies to technological up-gradation — new looms and the essential accessories that go with them. The point of the upgrade is to raise the quality of the fabric produced and lift productivity, which in turn makes the weaver's products more competitive and supports a more stable income.

Applications are handled offline. You obtain the official application form from your local Handloom Department office in Odisha, fill it in with your personal details and the technical specifics of the proposed up-gradation, attach the supporting documents, and submit the complete set to the designated authority. The official scheme document is hosted on the Odisha handloom portal at handloom.odisha.gov.in.

The papers commonly needed are proof of residency in Odisha, identification as a handloom weaver, certificates confirming weaving training completed in the last two years under a government programme such as Block Level Clusters, and detailed quotations or estimates for the looms and accessories you plan to upgrade.

Yes. The training must have been completed within the last two years, and it must have been undertaken through a government programme, including Block Level Clusters. Training completed earlier than that does not meet the stated condition.

No. Hathkargha Samvardhan Sahayata — 90% Subsidy for Odisha Weavers is subsidy and is non-dilutive — the provider does not take an equity stake in your startup.

Hathkargha Samvardhan Sahayata — 90% Subsidy for Odisha Weavers is offered by Directorate of Textiles and Handicrafts, Government of Odisha, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.