New Delhi, Sept. 22 -- India is working on a Rs.9,000-crore package for its handlooms and handicraft sector to support artisans and weavers to build scale, promote such products, preserve heritage crafts and boost exports, two people familiar with the matter told Mint. Government's proposed package entails five years of support for the sector, they said.

The expenditure finance committee has evaluated the textile ministry's proposal, the people said, adding that it may soon go for Union cabinet's nod.

Notably, exports of India's handicraft and handloom sector-which employs about 10 million weavers and artisans, mostly comprising women and vulnerable sections-remain below potential.

India's crafts, from carpets of Bhadohi and Madhubani ...