Textile Sector Emerges as a Crucial Economic Livelihood After Agriculture, According to Union Minister Giriraj Singh

The textile industry in India is emerging as a significant income source, following agriculture, according to Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh. Speaking at a roadshow ahead of Bharat Tex 2025, a global textile expo scheduled for February in New Delhi, Singh highlighted that the sector currently employs 4.6 crore people. This figure has seen a substantial increase since before 2014.

Singh noted that by 2030, the number of people employed in the textile sector is expected to reach six crore. He emphasised that innovation is central to the Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative under the Narendra Modi government. "Before 2014 there was no start up whereas now 1.5 lakh people are associated with start-up ventures," he stated.

Technical Textiles and Fibre Abundance

A new concept of technical textiles has significantly impacted the medical field, producing items like sanitary napkins and masks. Singh assured that by 2030, India will use 13 million tonnes of fibre without facing shortages. This abundance will be due to policies ensuring both natural and man-made fibres are plentiful.

India's textile diversity is vast, encompassing jute, natural fibres, mulberry, and tussar silk. Singh pointed out that whatever silk is available globally is produced in India. The government remains committed to enhancing this diversity and plans to revitalise the jute sector with an investment of Rs 12,000 crore.

India's Textile Industry Growth

Kolkata was once a textile leader alongside Mumbai post-Independence but lost its prominence over time. Singh described Kolkata as the "mother of textiles" and expressed intentions to restore its status. He also mentioned that India's textile industry has surpassed China and continues to progress.

Despite competition from Bangladesh and Vietnam in garments and China's previous dominance in cotton, India is advancing through innovation and start-ups. Singh remarked on India's economic resilience post-Covid, maintaining a growth rate of 7-8 per cent while other economies struggled.

Cultural Bridges Through Bharat Tex 2025

Union MoS Textile Pabitra Margherita stated that Bharat Tex 2025 aims to build cultural bridges globally. He acknowledged Kolkata's significant role, noting Bengal's rich heritage in handlooms, from baluchari sarees to jamdani. Margherita also highlighted India's trajectory towards a five trillion-dollar textile market.

He stressed the importance of forming a comprehensive textile value chain to support this growth. The upcoming expo will serve as a platform for showcasing India's textile capabilities and fostering international collaborations.

The Indian government's focus on innovation and diversity in textiles is paving the way for future growth. With strategic investments and initiatives like Bharat Tex 2025, India aims to strengthen its position in the global textile market while preserving its rich cultural heritage.