Hosiery industry was started at Shahpur in 1920
In 1920 the hosiery industry was started at Shahpur (Belagavi ) by Shanta Beerapa Belur who was inspired by an exhibition in Bombay (now Mumbai).
The modest beginning was done with socks. The needs of military station created an opportunity for Sweater, Vests, Socks, Mufflers etc. The removal on the restriction on the yarn distribution from 1952 by the Govt increased the number of units from 48 in 1952 to 115 in 1954.
The main products manufactured were Vests, Pullovers, Slip overs, baby coats, blouses, swimming trunks, mufflers, Tshirts etc.
Even Today Kore Galli in Shahpur has a few small scale units like Jalihal Knitwears in Kore Galli is a noted name along with Shirol, Gomatesh Hosiery and a few others. The charm of the earlier days is not there but they do supply in bulk etc to other bigger vendors.
Source: Karnataka Gazette