Paithani Weaving Training:

 

 

A Paithani Training and production center was established at Paithan in 1968 with a view to promoting the weaving of the Paithani. MSSIDC took over its management in 1973.

At present the number of looms at the center is 38 and about a hundred and fifty Paithanis, both traditional and brocade are produced annually. However, diversification has been necessary. Wall hangings, dress material, shawls, stoles, saree borders and pallavs are also being made using basic Paithani techniques. These provide a consistent source of income to the women weavers who can weave them in their own homes.

All the fabrics produced at the center are marketed by MSSIDC through its Marhati emporia at Mumbai and New Delhi.

MSSIDC is doing its best to improve the living and working conditions of the weavers, by making available to them raw material and looms. Besides, if they wish to work at the looms in the shed of the weavers' complex they are allowed to do so.

The wages of the artisans are being constantly revised and the provision of other facilities like housing, medical care, annuity for old weavers, education for weavers' children and insurance is being considered by the Government.

The new Paithani training scheme evolved by MSSIDC has attracted the younger generation. The training period was for 16 months, a higher stipend was offered, and the trainees were absorbed in the production programme on completion of training.

Preserving the art and the craft of Paithani is not going to be an easy task. However the challenge has been accepted by MSSIDC.