| Solapur Industry |
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There are 2 types of industry which thrive in Solapur, the handloom and power loom industry and the beedi industry. The handloom and power loom industry is a source of livelihood to a large population of Solapur. The number of power loom industries in operation now is about 6000 and approximately 55000 workers are employed in these industries. Various products like chadders (bed linen) towels and napkins which are produced here are being exported to other parts of the world. The workers in these industries enjoy stability and security as they are a part of worker unions, through which the interests of the workers are safeguarded. All employers have to adhere to the rules laid down by the trade unions in order to benefit the workers. Most of the factories have 2 shifts in a day, and hence the produce is good and the income of the workers is also adequate. Only second to the power loom and handloom industry is the beedi industry in Solapur. Beedi is an Indian cigarette made out of a leaf. But it has the highest beedi production in the whole of Maharashtra. These factories give employment to many women and for a long time they were exploited by this industry. Till about 7 years ago, when the Government of Maharashtra made a certain amount as “minimum wage” compulsory. Since then, the income of women workers has gone up. Agriculture and farming is also a main source of livelihood in Solapur. The main crops which are grown here are jowar, wheat and sugarcane. The famous “Maldandi Jowar” of Solapur is well-known all over the State. A famous event in Solapur is the Hurda Party, and Hurda is the pre-stage of jowar. A special breed of Hurda is sown in Solapur and it is known as Dudhmora. So, a good irrigation system is necessary and this is provided to the agriculturists by Solapur, so that it improves the economical condition of the whole district. Since 2004 Solapur can boast of a university, and it can comfortably cater to the needs of the district. For further education students are encouraged to join colleges and universities in big cities. The University provides ample employment to a large number of people who live there and naturally contribute towards educating the youth so that they can have a decent livelihood. There is even a new medical college and as educational institutions they contribute to the economics of the city, directly or indirectly. And the Industrial Training Institute trains the young generation for different jobs in the industry. |
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