India’s Textile Industry: Embracing Sustainability and Innovation

The Indian textile industry builds India’s economy and culture. It began with handlooms and now uses modern mills. It makes 13% of industrial production, adds 12% to exports, gives 2.3% to GDP, and creates many jobs.

Growth and Global Positioning

India stands as the world’s second-largest textile and garment maker. It holds 4.6% of global textile trade and ranks third in exports after China and Germany. In FY24, exports reached US$ 35.9 billion. Experts expect them to hit US$ 100 billion by FY30 with a steady growth of 10.1% each year. The sector gives work to about 45 million people, including 3.5 million handloom workers.

Environmental Challenges and Need for Sustainability

Fast growth and more synthetic fibres raise environmental issues. Production doubled in 15 years. Garments wear out 36% faster. Only 1% of fibres are recycled, so new raw materials are needed every time. The value chain makes waste, uses harsh chemicals, creates wastewater, and adds pollution. These factors risk nature and workers’ health. We must change now by balancing growth with care for our resources and environment.

Government Initiatives and Sustainable Manufacturing Practices

To fix these issues, the government acts with clear policies and programmes. It supports eco-friendly work by the Make in India initiative. The Mega Investment Textiles Parks (MITRA) scheme helps build affordable, sustainable mills.

Key sustainable practices adopted by manufacturers include:

Recycling and Upcycling

Indian companies now recycle and upcycle. They turn textile waste into new garments. This work supports a circular economy. Brands like Pomogrenade, The Second Life, and Patch over Patch show this trend.

Adoption of Renewable Energy

Factories cut high fossil fuel use by adding rooftop solar panels. These panels lower energy costs and shrink carbon footprints. Firms like Welspun now use solar and wind power.

Water Management and Eco-friendly Dyeing

Textile processes need much water. New ideas help reuse wastewater. BRFL Textiles Pvt Ltd uses sulphur dyeing with a continuous, water-less method. This approach cuts water use significantly.

Technological Innovation

This industry mixes old skills with new technology. Automation and advanced machines boost output and cut negative impacts. Companies now work with new fibre technologies. These changes improve both production and care for the planet.

Conclusion

India’s textile industry grows with vision. It blends strong economic gains with smart sustainability and innovation. With steps like circular fashion, renewable energy, careful water use, and modern technology, it sets a global standard for eco-friendly textile work.

Sources:

• Indian Brand Equity Foundation (IBEF)
• Texprocil, Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC)
• Financial Express

This summary shows India’s path toward a greener and more innovative textile industry. It reminds us that growth and respect for the environment can go hand in hand.

Design Delight Studio curates high-impact, authoritative insights into sustainable and organic product trends, helping conscious consumers and innovative brands stay ahead in a fast-evolving green economy.