India's textile industry is a cornerstone of the economy, contributing 2.3 per cent to GDP and employing over 100 million people directly and indirectly. From handwoven heritage fabrics like khadi and silk to high-performance technical textiles, the sector marries tradition with modernity. Its alignment with the ‘5F Vision’ farm, fibre, fabric, fashion, and foreign markets underpins a robust supply chain that spans production to retail while preserving India’s cultural legacy.
Shaping global competitiveness beyond cost
While cost efficiency has long been India’s competitive edge, the industry is evolving to meet the demands of fast fashion and technical textiles. Diversifying from its cotton dependency, India is expanding synthetic fibre production, boosted by initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM). Indian manufacturers are focusing on innovative designs and global trend adaptation, driving competitiveness in sectors like healthcare, automotive, and agriculture.
The government has played a pivotal role in advancing India’s textile sector through key initiatives. The PM MITRA Textile Parks aim to create an integrated production ecosystem, while the PLI Scheme boosts investment in man-made fibres (MMF) and technical textiles. The National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) focuses on R&D to strengthen global leadership in technical textiles, and the Samarth Scheme enhances workforce skills to improve productivity and quality across the industry.
Sustainability as a strategic imperative
India’s textile industry is leading the global shift toward sustainability, embracing renewable energy, ethical labor standards, and water-efficient processes. These efforts are part of a national decarbonization agenda, positioning India as a global leader in sustainable textile production. Initiatives in solar energy adoption and waste reduction are standardizing eco-friendly practices, meeting both environmental goals and market demand.
The sector’s reliance on a vast workforce presents an opportunity to blend traditional skills with modern technologies like automation and CAD. Skill development initiatives targeting rural areas and underrepresented groups, including women, are fostering an inclusive workforce, essential for global competitiveness.
Bharat Tex 2025: Catalyzing India’s textile future
Bharat Tex 2025, scheduled from February 12-17, 2025, in New Delhi, will showcase India’s textile leadership on the global stage. Covering 2.2 million square feet, the event will feature 5,000 exhibitors and attract over 18,000 buyers from 110 countries. Highlights include the Sustainability Pavilion, emphasizing eco-friendly practices; the Start-Up Innovation Pavilion, showcasing cutting-edge textile technologies; and the Craft Museum – Indi Bhaat, celebrating India’s rich tradition of arts and weaves.
Supported by major players like Reliance Industries, Aditya Birla, and Welspun, the event also features knowledge sessions and masterclasses focusing on ESG strategies, circularity, and cutting-edge innovations in textiles.
Driving global innovation and collaboration
Bharat Tex 2025 will foster dialogue between global leaders, industry experts, and government entities, including partnerships with UN agencies and think tanks like NITI Aayog. With a strong focus on sustainability, technological modernization, and strategic collaborations, the event aims to set new benchmarks for India’s textile industry.
With projections of the sector reaching $350 billion by 2030 and generating 35 million jobs, India’s textile industry is on a transformative path. By integrating innovation, sustainability, and tradition, India is poised to lead the global textile market, shaping an era of inclusive and sustainable growth.
