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Key
industries in Himachal Pradesh (HP) that
boost the state’s earning are agro
procurement, textiles, tourism, cement,
pharmaceuticals, light engineering and
hydropower. According to a report by
India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF),
the total exports from the registered
industries in the state stood at $409
million in 2004-05. With a strong
traditional industry base, the state is
a large exporter of textiles that
contributes around 65 per cent to its
total exports. Chemical exports ranks
second followed by the machinery. Export
of apples is another major source of
foreign exchange earnings for the state.
Sheep and goat rearing is a very common
occupation of many villagers in HP. The
residents engage themselves in blanket
weaving texturing. The carpets produced
in this state are made of pure wool
while durries are made of cotton.
A report by IBEF has also stated that
handloom is an important cottage
industry of HP and has the second
largest employment potential in the
rural sector. The importance of handloom
lies in the artistic designs, low-cost
investment and family-based skills,
which are passed on from generation to
generation with no formal training.
At present, there are about 42,000 looms
in HP, primarily based on wool, and
providing gainful employment to about
45,000 weavers. The major products woven
on handlooms are shawls, woollen tweeds,
shirting, dress material and woollen
carpets. Weaving activities are mostly
undertaken in Kullu, Mandi, Kinnaur,
Kangra, Lahaul and Spiti and Chamba
districts of the state.
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