The Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Initiative (MGGSI) is an umbrella framework aimed at strengthening rural self-reliance in khadi, handloom and handicrafts. It seeks to improve training, skilling, quality, branding and market access for rural enterprises so that they can grow into scalable, export-oriented units. The initiative is linked to employment generation for weavers, artisans and rural youth through stronger backward and forward value-chain linkages.
MGGSI Framework and Objectives
MGGSI focuses on rural enterprise development through local sourcing, process improvement and production quality enhancement. It supports the handmade sector as a long-term livelihood option. It also aligns with the One District One Product approach by promoting district-level craft and production ecosystems.
Handicrafts Support Under Ministry of Textiles
The Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) implements the National Handicrafts Development Programme and the Comprehensive Handicrafts Cluster Development Scheme. These schemes provide support for:
- Skill development and marketing events.
- Cluster development and producer company formation.
- Infrastructure and technology support.
- Research, digitisation, branding and domestic and international marketing.
In Telangana, 38 programmes were conducted under NHDP in FY 2025-26 till February 2026, with sanctions of Rs. 4.95 crore benefiting 1,242 artisans. A CHCDS project worth Rs. 5.76 crore has covered around 4,000 artisans since FY 2022-23.
Handloom Development in Telangana
The National Handloom Development Programme and Samarth Scheme support handloom workers through training, cluster development and marketing assistance. In Telangana, 2,066 handloom workers were trained under Samarth from 2020-21 to 2025-26 till date. Under the Cluster Development Programme, Rs. 1,223.97 lakh was provided for 26 clusters covering 4,971 beneficiaries. Support included upgraded looms, worksheds, solar lighting and product design development.
Marketing, Branding and Digital Platforms
Handloom marketing support has been extended through exhibitions, craft melas and other events. From 2022-23 to 2025-26 till February 2026, 15 expos were sanctioned for Telangana with a total fund of Rs. 2.56 crore. The IndiaHandmade portal supports online sales of handloom products. Design Resource Centres have also been set up, including one at Hyderabad. For authenticity and branding, 228 India Handloom Brand registrations and 1,337 Handloom Mark registrations have been completed in Telangana.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026