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Importance, outlook, and strategy plan for the expansion of India's technological textile industryOverviewIndia has always been a leading player in the Traditional textiles and Natural fibres segment. In recent times, India has made remarkable progress in the specialised area of technical textiles, key contributors of its growth being India’s leap towards modernisation and manufacturing competitiveness.Realising the importance of the segment, the Union textiles ministry is planning to provide grants of up to Rs 50 lakh each to 150 Startups engaged in producing technical textiles such as Kevlar, a strong, heat-resistant synthetic fibre and Spandex, a synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity. Technical textiles like Kevlar, Spandex, Nomex, a fabric that can withstand heat, flame, and chemicals, and Twaron, a heat-resistant fibre, are used in sectors such as aerospace, defence, automobiles, healthcare, construction, and agriculture.This funding is part of a Rs 375 crore allocation for FY 2025 from the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM). The ministry will not seek any share of profits generated from these businesses.Technical textilesTechnical textiles are a category of textiles, engineered for functional purposes beyond traditional apparel and home furnishing. They are manufactured using natural as well as man-made fibres such as Nomex, Kevlar, Spandex, Twaron, that exhibit higher tenacity, excellent insulation, improved thermal resistance etc.The invention of speciality fibres and their incorporation in almost all areas suggests that the importance of technical textiles is bound to increase future.Significance for IndiaTechnical textiles, a sunrise sector, has assumed added significance during Covid-19 crisis when global manufacturing had come to a grinding halt and the ban on export of critical medical equipment, including N95 face masks and protective gears had made imports to India nearly impossible. India was entirely import dependent for PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) kits. From manufacturing 0 PPE kits, it soon rose to manufacturing 2.5 lakh a day in 60 days, becoming the second largest manufacturer after China.By transforming the Covid-19 crisis to an opportunity, India has proved its ability to innovate and rise to the challenge with limited resources and time. It is opined, the government and industry should collaborate to boost technical textiles, a high value segment of the Textile Sector.Global technical textiles market & India’s place in itThe Global Technical Textiles market was estimated at $212 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $274 billion by 2027 growing at a CAGR of 5.2 % from 2022-27, driven by increasing cross-industry demand and the rapid development of new applicative products.According to a KPMG report, the Indian technical textiles market was the 5th largest in the world valued at $ 21.95 billion in 2021-22 with production worth $ 19.49 billion, and imports at $2.46 billion. Over the past 5 years, the market has reportedly grown at 8-10 % per annum with the government aiming to accelerate this growth to 15-20 % over the next 5 years.Towards global leadershipNTTM was launched in 2020 with the aim to position India as a global leader in technical textiles. This was to be achieved by promoting research, innovation, and the use of technical textiles in various sectors. To this effect the government has introduced:1. Production-linked incentive Scheme for textiles;2. PM MITRA Parks scheme;3. Quality control regulations, and;4. Over 500 standards to promote technical textiles.Startups interested in availing of the fund need to deposit 10% of the total fund allocation in advance. To receive Rs 50 lakh from the Ministry, a Startup must deposit Rs 5 lakh of its own funds, which will not be deducted from the Rs 50 lakh fund.As per the Press Release on 4th of February 2025, 4 Startups have been approved under the ‘Grant for Research & Entrepreneurship across Aspiring Innovators in Technical Textiles (GREAT)’ scheme focussed on key strategic areas of Medical Textiles, Industrial Textiles and Protective Textiles.Future of technical textilesTechnical textiles account for approximately 13% of India’s total textile and apparel market and contribute 0.7 % to India’s GDP. There is a huge potential to fulfil a large demand gap, as the consumption of technical textiles in India is still only at 5-10% against 30-70% in some of the advanced countries.EpilogueThe world has taken note of the manufacturing capability of Indian technical textiles during the COVID years. From being a non-producer of COVID Grade PPE kits, India rose to become the World’s second largest producer and exporter of PPEs and N-95 Masks in a period of six months during 2020.read more :-Indian rupee opened 11 paise higher at 87.46 per dollar on Friday versus Thursday close of 87.57.

After closing at 87.57 on Thursday, the Indian rupee opened Friday 11 paise higher at 87.46 to the dollar.The Sensex was up 11.40 points or 0.01 percent at 78,069.56, and the Nifty was up 8.60 points or 0.04 percent at 23,611.95. About 1274 shares advanced, 911 shares declined, and 128 shares unchanged.read more :-Indian rupee ended at fresh record low at 87.57 per dollar on Thursday versus thursday's morning of 87.51.

Compared to Thursday morning's closing price of 87.51, the Indian rupee fell to a new record low of 87.57 per dollar on Thursday.At close, the Sensex was down 213.12 points or 0.27 percent at 78,058.16, and the Nifty was down 92.95 points or 0.39 percent at 23,603.35. About 1871 shares advanced, 1907 shares declined, and 124 shares unchanged.read more :-India’s Technical Textiles Market Hits $29 Billion, Budget 2025 Boosts Growth – Rubix Data Sciences Report

India's Technical Textiles Market Reaches $29 Billion, Growth Accelerated by Budget 2025 – Report by Rubix Data Sciences.Mumbai – Rubix Data Sciences, a leader in risk management and monitoring services, has released its latest industry report, offering a comprehensive analysis of India’s technical textiles sector. At a time when Budget 2025 has introduced key policy changes to strengthen domestic manufacturing, this report provides critical insights into market trends, investment opportunities, and emerging innovations shaping the future of technical textiles.The technical textiles market in India, worth USD 29 billion in FY2024, is set for significant expansion, fueled by Budget 2025’s increase in Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on knitted fabrics and tax breaks for textile machinery. The report highlights key segments like packtech (44% market share), mobiltech, meditech, and agrotech which are expected to see growth due to rising investments and demand for high-performance fabrics. Cutting-edge advancements, including energy-harvesting fabrics, PCM-based adaptive clothing, and smart e-textiles for sports and fitness, are shaping the future of this industry. Government initiatives such as the PLI scheme, PM MITRA parks, and quality control mandates are also playing a crucial role in positioning India as a global leader in advanced textiles.“Technical textiles are no longer just about durability – they’re about intelligence, adaptability, and sustainability,” said Mohan Ramaswamy, Co-founder and CEO at Rubix Data Sciences “Budget 2025 has given the sector an added push, and we’re seeing an exciting shift towards sustainable innovation, automation, and smart materials. Whether it’s self-cleaning fabrics, military-grade protective gear, or biodegradable packaging, the landscape is evolving rapidly. Businesses that tap into these advancements now will be ahead of the curve.”As India strengthens its manufacturing base and expands its footprint in global trade, Rubix Data Sciences continues to provide data-driven intelligence that helps businesses navigate the industry shift.  With global demand for high-performance fabrics rising, the Indian market presents significant opportunities for investment, exports, and innovation. The full report is available hereread more :-Rupee touches fresh low of 87.51 against US dollar

The rupee has reached a new low of 87.51 against the US dollar.The local currency open around 6 paise down at 87.51 against the US dollar and then touch record low of 87.55 against the US dollar, as compared to 87.46 at previous close against the greenback.Indian rupee touched a record low of 87.55 against the US dollar due to higher dollar index and rising crude oil prices, which increases the demand for dollars from oil marketing companies, currency experts said.read more :-Indian rupee ended at fresh record low at 87.46 per dollar on Wednesday versus wednesday's morning of 87.12.

The Indian rupee concluded trading at a new all-time low of 87.46 per dollar on Wednesday, compared to the morning's rate of 87.12.At close, the Sensex was down 312.53 points or 0.40 percent at 78,271.28, and the Nifty was down 42.95 points or 0.18 percent at 23,696.30. About 2470 shares advanced, 1345 shares declined, and 130 shares unchanged.read more :-Cotton Production: There may be a big jump in cotton production, CICR changes the estimate

Cotton Production: A significant increase in cotton output may occur, as the CICR revises its estimate.The estimated production of cotton is likely to increase in the current marketing season 2024-25. With this, the estimate of total cotton production has been revised once again, as the initial estimate is expected to increase production in the major cotton producing areas of the central and southern parts of the country. According to ICAR- Central Institute of Cotton Research (CICR)- Nagpur, the production of cotton for the current marketing season till September this year is estimated to be 320 lakh bales. The weight of one bale is 170 kg.Initially the estimated production of cotton was estimated to be 299.36 to 304 lakh bales. In the marketing season 2023-24, 325.22 lakh bales of cotton were produced. According to the report, CICR Director YG Prasad said that once before also the production estimate has been revised to 5 lakh bales. The estimate will increase due to good yield in central and southern states.Yield will increase in many districts of three statesPrasad has expressed hope that the production can touch the figure of about 320 lakh bales. He said that there is a possibility of increase in production due to good yield in many districts of Maharashtra, Telangana and Karnataka. Prasad said that this time the distribution of rain was good as compared to last season. Also, the infestation of pink bollworm was less and the farmers also took care of the crop efficiently, due to which a situation of higher yield is being created.According to COCPC, production will be lessPrasad said that the farmers also harvested the crop early due to which the infestation of pink bollworm could be reduced. The situation of improvement in production is when crops have been damaged due to heavy rains in Maharashtra and Gujarat. According to the Cotton Production and Consumption Committee (COCPC), during the current season 2024-25 starting from October, cotton production is estimated to be 299.26 lakh bales till September.CAI also improved the estimateLast season, it was estimated to be 325.22 lakh bales. That is, this time the production was expected to be less. At the same time, the Cotton Association of India (CAI) recently revised the cotton production by 2 lakh bales from 302.25 lakh to 304.25 lakh bales due to higher than expected production in Telangana. CAI has anticipated an increase of two lakh bales in consumption for the current marketing season.read more :-Rupee opens 5 paise down at 87.12 against US dollar

Rupee weakened by 5 paise to open at 87.12 against the US dollar.The local currency opened at 87.12 against the US dollar, as compared to 87.07 at previous close against the greenback.Indian rupee opened five paise down on February 5 at 87.12 against the US dollar amid weak Asian equities, currency experts said.read more :-Indian rupee ended 4 paise lower at 87.07 per dollar on Tuesday versus tuesday's morning open of 87.03.

The Indian rupee opened at 87.03 on Tuesday and closed the day 4 paise lower at 87.07 per dollar.At close, the Sensex was up 1,397.07 points or 1.81 percent at 78,583.81, and the Nifty was up 378.20 points or 1.62 percent at 23,739.25. About 2426 shares advanced, 1349 shares declined, and 144 shares unchanged.read more :-India's textile, apparel players positioned to benefit from Trump tariffs

India's textile, apparel players positioned to benefit from Trump tariffsIndian textile and apparel players are poised to benefit from the first round of Trump's tariffs levied against China, Mexico and Canada. The industry can leverage this shift in trade dynamics to significantly increase its exports to the US, which currently sits at 28  per cent.The newly appointed Trump administration declared an economic emergency on Saturday, placing duties of 10 per cent  on all imports from China and 25 percent on imports from Mexico and Canada, citing national security concerns. The first round of tariffs looms as a threat to textile and apparel exports from China and Mexico, forcing brands to seek alternative sourcing options in countries like Vietnam, Bangladesh, and India.As per data from the United States International Trade Commission (USITC), China has been the leading supplier to the world's largest textile importer between 2013-2023, followed by Vietnam, Bangladesh and India.  But its share of US apparel imports fell from 37.7 percent in 2013 to 21.3 percent in 2023 by value, amid increased cost of procuring and risk due to  allegations of forced labour. Analsyts expect the current round of layoffs to position India better in benefitting from the shift in trade dynamics."This policy shift is likely to accelerate diversification strategies of global brands, positioning India as a key sourcing hub. So, expect growth for home textiles and garments as India captures a larger market share year-to-date calendar year 2024 (January-November 2024), India’s market share in cotton sheet imports to the US improved to 61.3 percent (up 252bps YoY), in total apparel to 6.0 percent (up 22bps YoY) and in cotton apparel to 9.8 percent (up 49bps YoY), according to brokerage Elara Securities.India is a major textile and apparel exporting country and enjoys a trade surplus. The bulk of import takes place for re-export or for industry requirement of raw material. As of 2024, exports of ready-made garments to the US stood at 14.3 per cent, according to data from the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC). Key apparel exports to the US include cotton knit and woven shirts, cotton dresses, and babies’ garments."India stands to benefit from this shift due to its established textile and apparel industry. In 2023, India exported textile items worth USD 34 billion, with apparel constituting 42% of the export basket. Notably, Europe and the U.S. consumed nearly 66% of India's apparel exports, underscoring the country's strong presence in these markets," said  Naveen Malpani, Partner at Grant Thornton.Apparel producers in India specialise in value-added products that require higher skill levels, such as items requiring hand embroidery or embellishments. Additionally, India’s production of nearly every apparel input, from fiber to accessories, has allowed for vertical integration that appeals to buyers looking to mitigate risk in their supply chains and reduce costs. More than 90 percent of the raw material requirements for apparel are sourced from within the country (India), according to USITC."Global brands are increasingly focusing on diversifying their supply chains beyond Bangladesh, exploring multiple sourcing alternatives to mitigate risks and ensure continuity. While India is among several options being considered, its well-established textiles ecosystem, competitive capabilities, and full-stack solutions position it as a key beneficiary of this strategic shift. We believe India’s robust infrastructure and expertise make it a compelling choice for global brands looking to diversify their outsourcing strategies," Elara Securities said in their note published last month."While this is a positive development, challenges such as high tariff rates on certain Indian apparel categories and compliance with evolving US import regulations may persist subject to negotiations. Addressing these through trade negotiations and supply chain improvements could enhance India’s competitive edge," said  Malpani.read more :-*What is ELS cotton, why doesn’t india grow more of this premium variety?*

Why doesn't India produce more of this high-quality type of cotton? What is ELS cotton?Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, while presenting the Union Budget on Saturday, announced a five-year mission to “facilitate significant improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming, and promote extra-long staple (ELS) cotton varieties”.What is ELS cotton?Cotton is classified, based on the length of its fibres, as long, medium, or short staple. Gossypium hirsutum, which constitutes roughly 96% of the cotton grown in India, falls in the medium staple category, with fibre lengths ranging from 25 to 28.6 mm.On the other hand, ELS varieties boast fibre lengths of 30 mm and above. Most ELS cotton comes from the species Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton. Having originated in South America, ELS cotton today is mainly grown in China, Egypt, Australia, and Peru.“In India, some ELS cotton is grown along rain fed parts of Atpadi taluka in Maharashtra’s Sangli district, and around Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu,” Bhausaheb Pawar, a senior research assistant with the Mahatma Phule Krishi Mahavidyalay in Ahmednagar.He added that the fabric produced using ELS cotton is of the highest quality.This is why brands producing top-of-the-line fabrics mix a small quantity of ELS with medium staple cotton to improve quality, said Pradeep Jain, founder-president of the Khandesh Gin Press Factory Owners and Traders Development Association. “More than 90% of the 20-25 lakh bales — each bale contains 170 kg of de-seeded ginned and pressed cotton — of the fibre that we annually import constitutes ELS cotton,” Jain said.Why is ELS cotton not grown in India?For the 2024-25 season, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of medium staple cotton was Rs 7,121 (per quintal) while that of long staple cotton was Rs 7,521.Nonetheless, cotton farmers in India have thus far been reluctant to adopt ELS cotton. This is mainly due to lower than average per acre yields, experts say. While the medium staple variety yields between 10 and 12 quintals per acre, ELS cotton has a yield of only 7-8 quintals.Additionally, farmers growing ELS cotton are often unable to market their premium produce at premium prices. “The market linkages necessary are not available easily,” said one trader.How can the Cotton Mission help?“The best science & technology support will be provided to farmers,” Sitharaman said in her Budget speech.With the cotton ecosystem plagued by low per-acre yields, and increased pest attacks, adoption of the latest technologies would be a welcome step, Jain said. “What we need is the farmer to access the latest in GM [genetic modification] technology,” he said.Farmers in Maharashtra have long demanded that they be allowed to cultivate the herbicide-resistant HtBT cotton, which is illegal at present. This would significantly help with weed management.diCurrently, India’s per acre yields are significantly lower than other countries. For instance, Brazil boasts an average yield of 20 quintals per acre, while China boasts a yield of 15 quintals. Better seeds, timely agronomic advice, and adoption of technology would help India improve in this regard, and grow premium varieties such as ELS cotton.read more :- The Indian currency opened 16 paise stronger at Rs 87.03 against the dollar.