Registering a modest 3 per cent increase, Punjab’s textile exports rose from Rs 12,043.2 crore in FY23 to Rs. 12,241.43 crore in FY24, according to the Textile Ministry. This improvement is attributed to several supportive initiatives by the Central Government.
In response to a parliamentary question from MP Raghav Chadha, the Ministry outlined its efforts to revitalize Punjab's textile industry. These initiatives include talent development, financial incentives, and export promotion programs. The government is providing demand-driven, placement-oriented training aligned with the National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) under the Samarth Scheme, benefiting nearly 900 individuals in Punjab so far.
To boost textile exports, the government is implementing the Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies (RoSCTL) scheme for garments, accessories, and made-ups. For other textile products, including those from Punjab, it has launched the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) scheme. Furthermore, the Market Access Initiative Scheme provides financial assistance to export promotion councils and trade associations, enabling their participation in national and international buyer-seller meetings, trade shows, and exhibitions.
Designed to strengthen the sector's infrastructure, the Scheme for Integrated Textile Parks (SITP) has seen approval for three projects in Punjab. These include the Lotus Integrated Tex Park, Rhythm Textile and Apparel Park, and Ludhiana Integrated Textile Park. Additional support comes from the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which targets large-scale production of technical textiles, apparel, and man-made fabrics. These combined efforts aim to bolster Punjab's textile industry and promote its growth in the global market.