The centre has urged the state governments to fast-track approvals for textile parks for which an investment of Rs 30,000 crore has been earmarked to create 4.5 lakh jobs, according to a media report.

“I would like to point out that there are difficulties in getting environmental clearances in several states. I would urge the state governments to show interest on this issue and expedite much-needed clearances,” textile minister, Santosh Gangwar said while addressing the state textile ministers’ conference in New Delhi.

The minister said 72 textile parks have been sanctioned under the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP) till now.

“On textile parks, we need more cooperation from state governments. We find that in a number of cases, entrepreneurs are facing difficulties in getting land, clearances, electricity connection etc.” textiles secretary S K Panda who was also present said.

Gangwar said a modified Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) will be introduced shortly.

“TUFS had earlier faced difficulties… We had appealed to the Prime Minister that the scheme should be continued in a more organised manner. Therefore, the government is coming out with a modified TUFS scheme, which will be unveiled shortly,” he said. TUFS is being revised to support employment generating and export oriented segments to meet challenges in global market, minister added.

The textile industry had been complaining that reimbursement under TUFS have been inordinately delayed which have hampered their operations.