Consequently, wool sector policies, programmes and schemes have to be designed to keep in mind and promote the interests of both groups in a balanced manner. The wool sector provides employment to about 12 lakh sheep breeders and rearers, and another 12 lakh industrial workers. Production of raw wool, which is mainly of carpet grade variety, is estimated to be about 46 million kgs. This quantity is not sufficient to meet the requirements of the large woollen industry, and the Industry has to import of raw wool, woollen and cotton rags. Import is mainly of apparel grade wool, the major share coming from Australia, and going into the manufacture of worsted fabric, woollen knitwear, shawls and ready-mades.
Indigenous wool is the main source for the carpet industry.
The export of woollen items, increasing slowly, has now reached 496 million US Dollars and the target is to double it by 2010. The major problems faced by the industry include lack of technological inputs. Appropriate programmes to tackle these problems are being taken up with the state governments, which have the major responsibility for animal husbandry, with the support of the Department of Animal Husbandry and this Ministry. Government has also taken initiative to promote angora wool and is considering programmes for promoting pashmina wool. With these introductory remarks, I would now request the Hon ble Members of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee to give us the benefit of their views and advise, so that we are able to improve upon our efforts for the development of these industries.