The ministry of textiles has disbanded another advisory body among the handicraft and handloom boards called the All India Power loom Board. They have also notified the change in the eight Textiles Research Associations (TRAs) to become affiliated bodies of the ministry.

The TRAs are now approved bodies to conduct testing, research and developmental activities related to the textile industry. As per the reports the decision was in line with the center’s minimum government, maximum governance principle in accordance with the handicraft and handloom board. This step contributes towards the vision for leaner government machinery and for the systematic rationalization of government bodies.

The Textiles Research Associations stated that from this point forth any disposal, sale, transfer of assets created out of central government grant will require prior approval from the textile ministry. Also, officials of the ministry in the governing bodies of these TRAs have been withdrawn. This is to encourage a reduction of government presence however, other changes in membership will not be awaited. The TRAs have been told to include the bye-laws according to changes that have been notified. The eight TRAs include Northern India TRA in Ghaziabad, Ahmedabad Textile Industry Researcher Association, Bombay TRA, Coimbatore-based South India TRA, Synthetic and Art Silk Mills Research Association in Mumbai, Man-made TRA in Surat, World Research Association in Thane and Kolkata-based Indian Jute Industries Research Association.