India Technical Textiles Industry Aiming for $10 Billion in Exports by 2030
India Technical Textiles Industry: Aiming for $10 Billion in Exports by 2030. The Indian technical textiles industry is poised to achieve a significant milestone by crossing the $10 billion export target by 2030. Union Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh, recently expressed confidence in the industry’s potential while inaugurating the international conference-cum-exhibition titled “Viksit Bharat – Technical Textiles for Sustainable Growth & Development” in New Delhi. The event was organized by the Ministry of Textiles in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA).
India’s Technical Textiles Industry: Aiming for $10 Billion in Exports by 2030
Overview of India Technical Textiles and Their Growth
Textile manufacturers produce technical textiles for their functional properties rather than aesthetic purposes. Textiles have applications in various industries such as healthcare, construction, automotive, aerospace, agriculture, and sports. With the rising demand for these products, the global market for technical textiles has witnessed rapid growth.
In India, technical textiles have become a focal point for economic growth. The Indian government has launched several initiatives to promote the production and export of technical textiles, driving the country toward self-reliance in this field.
Key Initiatives to Promote Technical Textiles
- National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM): Launched by the Ministry of Textiles, the NTTM aims to promote the use of technical textiles across various sectors. The mission focuses on enhancing research, innovation, and the development of high-performance fibers.
- PLI Scheme: The government launched the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to boost the production capacity of MMF (Man-Made Fibers) fabrics, apparel, and technical textiles in India
- Support for Startups: The government has approved and provided funding for 11 startups working in the technical textiles sector, offering them opportunities to innovate and expand.
Research and Development Focus
Shri Giriraj Singh highlighted the government’s dedication to fostering research and innovation in technical textiles. The National Technical Textiles Mission has already sanctioned 156 research projects, focusing on areas like the development of carbon fibers and meditech products, including hygiene-related products. These developments will further strengthen India’s technical textile industry and contribute to the $10 billion export target.
The Growing Demand for Technical Textiles
The demand for technical textiles is steadily increasing across various industries, driven by the product’s wide range of applications.
Key Sectors Utilizing Technical Textiles
- Aerospace Industry: High-performance fibers and composites play a crucial role in the aerospace sector. These fibers are essential for creating lightweight and durable materials used in aircraft and spacecraft.
- Automotive Sector: The automotive industry uses technical textiles for seat belts, airbags, tires, and interior materials. The durability and safety offered by these textiles make them indispensable in modern vehicles.
- Construction Industry: Technical textiles such as geotextiles are used in construction for soil stabilization, drainage, and erosion control. Their application enhances the lifespan and stability of infrastructure projects.
- Healthcare Sector: Meditech textiles, including surgical gowns, masks, and hygiene products, are essential in the healthcare industry. The demand for these products has increased significantly, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.
India’s Position in the Global Market
Shri Giriraj Singh emphasized India’s potential to become a global leader in the technical textiles market. Currently, the global trade of technical textiles is valued at approximately $300 billion. India’s domestic market size stands at $25 billion, while the country exports around $2.6 billion worth of technical textiles. With the growing focus on innovation and the development of new products, India is on track to capture a larger share of the global market.
Challenges in the Technical Textiles Industry
While India’s technical textiles industry shows great promise, there are still several challenges that need to be addressed:
- Lack of Infrastructure: Dr. S Somanath, Chairman of ISRO, pointed out the lack of commercial production facilities for high-performance fibers in India. This reliance on imports creates a bottleneck for the industry, and large-scale investments are needed to set up production facilities.
- Complex Machinery: The production of technical textiles requires sophisticated machinery, which is often expensive to procure. The government and private sector need to work together to invest in advanced technology to meet the demand.
- Skilled Workforce: The technical textiles industry is highly specialized, requiring skilled workers who are trained in handling advanced machinery and materials. There is a need to invest in training programs and education to build a skilled workforce.
Government’s Commitment to the Industry
The Indian government is taking proactive steps to address these challenges and support the growth of the technical textiles industry. Key policy initiatives include:
Quality Control and Standards
The Ministry of Textiles has introduced Quality Control Orders (QCO) for 57 technical textiles items, including fire retardant furniture fabrics. These quality standards are essential for ensuring that Indian technical textiles meet global benchmarks and are competitive in international markets.
Interdepartmental Collaboration
Smt. Rachna Shah, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, highlighted the importance of interdepartmental collaboration in promoting technical textiles. By working together, various government departments can streamline processes, provide financial support, and create a conducive environment for the industry to thrive.
State-Level Initiatives
Several state governments have taken the initiative to promote investments in technical textiles, including Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). These efforts are crucial for expanding the production capacity of technical textiles in India. Union Minister of State for Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, urged other states to follow suit and create favorable conditions for the growth of the industry.
India’s Vision for 2030
India’s vision for the technical textiles industry by 2030 is ambitious. The country aims to become the largest manufacturer and exporter of technical textiles, not only meeting domestic demand but also becoming a key player in the global market.
High-Performance Fibers
One of the key areas of focus is the development of high-performance fibers. These fibers have applications in sectors such as aerospace, defense, and construction. By investing in research and infrastructure, India can reduce its dependence on imports and become self-reliant in the production of these fibers.
Meditech and Hygiene Products
Meditech, especially hygiene products, is expected to play a major role in achieving the $10 billion export target. The demand for products such as surgical masks, gloves, and gowns is increasing, both domestically and internationally. India’s technical textiles industry is set to meet this demand and expand its presence in global markets.
Conclusion
The future of India’s technical textiles industry is bright, with a clear path toward achieving the $10 billion export target by 2030. The government’s initiatives, coupled with the private sector’s innovation and investment, will drive the industry’s growth. With the right policies and infrastructure in place, India is set to become a global leader in technical textiles, contributing to the country’s vision of Viksit Bharat.
As the demand for technical textiles continues to rise, India’s position in the global market will strengthen, making it a key player in sustainable growth and development.
