The man-made fabric hub in Surat wants the embroidery and zari sectors to be included in the Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme. In a cluster like Surat, there are around 1.50 lakh embroidery units working in the decentralized and unorganized sector. However, each process in garment manufacturing is carried out by distinctly by different units. Despite this the embroidery sector has been excluded from the benefits of subsidy under the ATUF.

As of now embroidery machines qualify for subsidy in ATUF only if they are used in the readymade garment units. Zari units find no mention in ATUFs.

The zari industry of Surat is one of the oldest handicrafts whose origin can be traced to the Mughal period. Surat is one of the biggest and most significant zari manufacturing centers in India.

The principal type of products are real gold and silver threads, imitation gold and silver threads, and the zari border weaving, embroidery, laces, caps, turbans, saris, and blouse pieces. Gold and silver threads are commonly used for weaving the kinkhab.

What makes production process of Surat zari unique is its silver electroplating process. In this process zari is produced by using fine copper wires with silver coating that are shining and acquire multiple hues.