India’s textile industry is poised for a transformative leap, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi setting an ambitious target to triple textile exports to ₹29 lakh crore by 2030. Speaking at the prestigious Bharat Tex 2025 event in New Delhi, the Prime Minister highlighted the sector’s remarkable growth trajectory and unveiled a comprehensive roadmap to achieve this goal. The event, which brought together stakeholders from 126 countries, showcased India’s potential to dominate the global textile market while reinforcing its position as the world’s sixth-largest textile exporter.
A Vision Rooted in the ‘Five Fs’
At the heart of India’s textile revolution lies the visionary ‘Five Fs’ framework: Farm to Fiber, Fiber to Factory, Factory to Fashion, and Fashion to Foreign Markets. This integrated approach, unique to India, ensures a seamless textile ecosystem that no competing nation can replicate. PM Modi emphasized that this holistic strategy has already propelled the industry to new heights, with textile exports reaching ₹23 lakh crore in recent years.
The government’s commitment to this vision is further underscored by the establishment of seven PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks. These parks are designed to foster innovation, enhance productivity, and create a robust infrastructure for the textile sector. By aligning with the ‘Five Fs’ framework, these initiatives aim to strengthen India’s position as a global textile powerhouse.
Bharat Tex 2025: A Gateway to Global Opportunities
Bharat Tex 2025, held from February 14 to 17, is more than just an exhibition; it is a testament to India’s growing influence in the global textile market. With exhibitors from over 120 countries, the event provided a platform for Indian entrepreneurs to expand their businesses beyond domestic borders. PM Modi lauded the participation of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), noting that the event has been instrumental in helping them scale their operations and explore international markets.
The Prime Minister also highlighted the role of the textile sector in generating employment, particularly in rural areas. With an average investment of ₹70-75 crore per factory, the industry supports approximately 2,000 jobs per unit. Modi urged the banking sector to extend credit facilities to MSMEs, enabling them to grow and contribute further to job creation. As one of the largest employment providers in the country, the textile sector contributes 11% to India’s manufacturing GDP, making it a cornerstone of the nation’s economic development.
Recycling: The Next Frontier in Textiles
In a bid to capitalize on emerging global trends, PM Modi called upon Indian startups and entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in textile recycling. With the global textile waste recycling market projected to reach $7.5 billion, this sector presents a lucrative avenue for innovation and sustainability. Modi envisions India capturing a significant share of this market, potentially creating a $400 million industry domestically.
The emphasis on recycling aligns with the global shift towards sustainable practices. By integrating recycling into the textile value chain, India can not only reduce its environmental footprint but also tap into a rapidly growing market. This forward-thinking approach underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and future-ready textile industry.
Policy Support and Foreign Investment
The success of India’s textile sector is a result of consistent policy support and strategic initiatives. Over the past decade, foreign investment in the industry has doubled, reflecting global confidence in India’s potential. The Union Budget’s Manufacturing Mission further bolsters this growth, with a focus on five key areas: ease of doing business, workforce development, MSME empowerment, technological advancement, and product quality.
Additionally, the government has launched a five-year Mission for Cotton Productivity to enhance the sustainability and yield of cotton farming. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized that this mission will not only increase farmers’ incomes but also ensure a steady supply of high-quality cotton for the textile industry. These initiatives are aligned with the ‘Five Fs’ vision, creating a synergistic ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders.
India’s Global Textile Dominance
India’s textile and apparel (T&A) sector accounts for 3.9% of global trade, with the US and European Union being its largest markets. Recent geopolitical developments, such as political turmoil in Bangladesh, have further bolstered India’s position. For instance, India’s jute product exports surged by 44% in October 2024, reaching $36 million compared to $25 million in the same period the previous year. This growth underscores India’s ability to capitalize on global opportunities and adapt to changing market dynamics.
A Bright Future Ahead
As India marches towards its goal of becoming a $5 trillion economy, the textile sector is set to play a pivotal role. With a clear vision, robust policy support, and a focus on sustainability, the industry is well-positioned to achieve double-digit growth in the coming years. PM Modi’s address at Bharat Tex 2025 not only highlighted the sector’s achievements but also inspired stakeholders to aim higher and dream bigger.
The journey from ₹23 lakh crore to ₹29 lakh crore in textile exports is not just a numerical target; it is a reflection of India’s resilience, innovation, and global ambition. As the nation continues to weave its success story, the world watches in awe, recognizing India as a leader in the global textile arena. The seeds sown today are rapidly growing into a mighty banyan tree, symbolizing a ‘Viksit Bharat’ that is ready to conquer new frontiers.