Indian Textile Machinery Makes Global Mark, Aims for Green Future

Surat : Indian textile industry is weaving a new narrative, one stitched with cutting-edge technology and a commitment to sustainability. At the inauguration of the Surat International Textiles Exhibition (SITEX 2024) today, SP Verma, Additional Textile Commissioner of the Government of India, unveiled a tapestry of impressive numbers: India manufactures an astounding Rs 14,000 crore worth of high-tech textile machinery annually, with 35% of it exported to the world.

“Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision,” Verma declared, “we’re striving to transform India’s textile industry into a full-fledged manufacturing powerhouse.” He emphasized the crucial role young talent plays in achieving this goal, urging textile machinery manufacturers like those in Surat to tap into their dynamism and create employment opportunities.

Verma also set an ambitious target: fulfilling Modi’s dream of making India self-sufficient in textile machinery by 2030. He encouraged the entrepreneurs present to embrace innovation and collaboration, pushing boundaries with environmentally conscious practices.

“There’s immense potential in our youth,” Verma said. “Surat’s fabric merchants and machinery manufacturers should invest in these bright minds, entrust them with projects that push the boundaries of sustainability.”

This call for green innovation resonated with the announcement of Surat becoming the first city in India to implement ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) norms in a textile cluster. The government has identified eight clusters and six parks across the country where ESG principles will be integrated into the entire textile value chain, from raw materials to finished products.

“It’s time for our industrialists to be mindful of the environment,” Verma stated, highlighting the Ministry of Textiles’ commitment to green building, upcycling, and recycling. He invited the industry to participate in the ‘Bharat Tex’ initiative, a platform dedicated to promoting sustainable practices.

Surjit Singh Mahajan, Managing Director of Stobli India Pvt. Ltd. and Chief Guest at SITEX 2024, lauded the industry’s recent surge. “Surat has witnessed a revolution in textile production thanks to modern machinery,” he declared, emphasizing the city’s global recognition for its high-quality fabrics and significant contribution to India’s GDP.

Ramesh Vaghasia, President of the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SGCCI), echoed this commitment to sustainability. “We’re actively guiding the industries of South Gujarat towards achieving net zero emissions,” he announced. “Our partnership with the Global Net for Zero organization will equip entrepreneurs and traders with the tools and knowledge they need to produce textiles responsibly while minimizing environmental impact.”