Liya Abiman boosts handloom industry

Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa declared open the Handloom Textile Training and Services Centre at Divulapitiya on October 14, 2011. The object of establishing this training centre is to facilitate development of the Sri Lankan handloom textile industry by producing a competent workforce with specialized skills.

The Divulapitiya, Ihala Madampella Handloom Textile Training and Services Centre establishment project was implemented under the guidance of Attorney-at-Law and Chairperson of the “Liya Abiman Organization” Pushpa Rajapaksa. The Liya Abiman programme has commenced self-employment training programmes, such as, bee keeping, food manufacturing, dairy farming, beauty culture, sewing, saree jacket making and handicraft courses for women in the Gampaha District.

The cost of the established Handloom Textile Training and Services Centre at Divulapitiya was around Rs five million. As per the instructions of Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa, funds were provided by the Economic Development Ministry. Handloom materials worth more than Rs two million were also distributed among weavers.

There is high demand for handloom textiles both locally as well as internationally. At present, local weavers use traditional looms to manufacture textile materials, but the modern world needs demand new designs to grab local and overseas markets. To fulfil these requirements, the Textile Training and Services Centre aims to train weavers in handloom textiles industry and provide consultancy services.

The institute has started a need-based practical-oriented training programme for those already engaged in the industry as well as for newcomers desiring to enter the handloom clothing industry for a career.

The Liya Abiman Organization plans to train unemployed youths in the textile manufacturing sector to develop the industry at village level to conquer new markets.

Member of Parliament Sudarshani Fernandopulle and Western Provincial Councillors Chandana Jayakody, Chandrika Sakalasooriya, officers from related ministries, representatives from the textiles industry and government officers also participated on this occasion.