<h1>Cabinet Approves TUFS Extension with Rs. 11,900 Crore Budget to Boost Power Looms and Textile Sector Employment.</h1> The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the continuation of the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS) during the 12th Plan period, focusing on power looms. The scheme's budget is Rs. 11,900 crore, with Rs. 2,400 crore allocated for 2013-14. Key features include reduced interest reimbursement for second-hand shuttleless looms, increased subsidies for new looms, and higher capital subsidies for handloom and silk sectors. A pilot project for hire-purchase of new looms is introduced to aid powerloom weavers. The scheme aims to boost textile sector growth, enhance global competitiveness, and generate employment for 15.81 million workers.