India’s Textile Industry: Embracing Sustainability and Innovation

India’s textile industry stands as a core of the nation’s economy and heritage. It grew from old handlooms to new mills. The industry drives output, exports, and jobs. It faces waste and pollution problems. New steps mix green ideas with fresh innovation to fix these issues.

Economic and Global Position

• India makes 13% of its industrial output with textiles and sends out 12% of exports.
• Textiles add 2.3% to India’s GDP.
• The sector gives jobs to about 45 million people, including 3.5 million handloom workers.
• India is the world’s second-biggest maker of textiles and garments.
• It is the third-biggest exporter of textiles, after China and Germany.
• Textile exports hit US$ 35.9 billion in FY24 and may grow to US$ 100 billion by FY30.
• The local textile market may grow from US$ 197 billion in 2023 to US$ 350 billion by 2030. The growth rate is around 10.1% per year.

Environmental Challenges and the Need for Sustainability

• Fast industry growth and a shift to synthetic fibers bring new green problems.
• Textile production has doubled, but the life of garments fell by 36% in 15 years.
• Only 1% of fibers come from recycling, so most use new raw materials.
• The process uses lots of water. It sends toxic chemicals into nature. It causes air, noise, and work hazards.
• Heavy use of dyes, chemicals, and fuel makes the need for green change strong.

Government Initiatives and Industry Response

• Government plans like ‘Make in India’ and ‘Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA)’ push for green factories.
• Makers now save water, recycle waste, and use bio-based textiles.
• Key moves include:
  • Recycling and Upcycling: Pre- and post-use textile waste becomes new cloth. Pomogrenade and Patch over Patch lead this trend.
  • Renewable Energy Adoption: Many mills now use solar panels and wind power to cut fossil fuels. Welspun shows a good change.
  • Eco-conscious Water Management: Firms now recycle wastewater and save water. BRFL Textiles uses techniques that need little water for dyeing.

Technological Innovation Driving Growth

The industry links old textile skills with new machines and automation. These steps raise output and cut waste. Better spinning, dyeing, and fabric work make the process both fast and green.

Conclusion

India’s textile industry is set for strong growth by mixing new ideas with eco steps. Government help and smart changes turn an old art into a modern, green trade. This change brings steady profits and helps the planet meet its green goals.

Sources: India Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF), Texprocil, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), Financial Express.

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