Textile units of Ichalkaranji, the textile city of Kolhapur district, have an extended opportunity to submit applications for claiming subsidy under TUFs in their industrial units. The earlier date for submitting applications online was before May 3. Textile operators, however, objected to the announcement being made at such short notice and demanded an extension of the deadline. Many textile unit operators could not upload their claims on time. Thus the deadline has been extended to the end of June.

Under the technology upgradation fund scheme, textile operators will get a five per cent subsidy. Ichalkaranji is the second largest textile hub in Maharashtra, with more than 50 international apparel brands sourcing their products from there. The industry is growing with more units coming up. A power loom was installed here in 1904 and this is possibly the first power loom started in the decentralized textile industry of the country.

Textiles are the backbone of the economy in Ichalkaranji. It is the fastest growing industrial area in western Maharashtra. Earlier, Ichalkaranji was famous for cotton cloths, dhotis and saris. With the changing market situation, it produces not only cotton but also suitings, shirtings, denim cloth, canvas, cambric etc.