Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed Bharat Tex 2025, emphasizing the need to maximize resource utilization and minimize waste in India’s textile sector. He stressed that ‘fast fashion waste’ poses a significant environmental threat but can also be turned into a growth opportunity through India’s expertise in textile recycling and upcycling.
Fast Fashion Waste: A Growing Concern
PM Modi pointed out that millions of garments are discarded monthly due to changing trends. By 2030, fashion waste is expected to reach 148 million tons, with less than 25% being recycled. He emphasized that India’s textile industry can lead the way in addressing this issue through sustainable practices.
Leveraging Traditional Skills for Upcycling
Highlighting India’s deep-rooted textile traditions, the Prime Minister cited examples such as:
- Mats, rugs, and coverings made from old fabrics
- Fine quilts crafted from torn clothes in Maharashtra
He stated that modern innovation in these traditional practices can open global market opportunities.
Government Initiatives and Industry Collaboration
PM Modi announced key initiatives to support textile recycling:
- The Textile Ministry signed an MoU with the Standing Conference of Public Enterprises and the e-Marketplace to promote upcycling.
- Pilot projects for door-to-door textile waste collection are already running in cities like Navi Mumbai and Bangalore.
- Encouragement for startups to explore opportunities in this sector.
Economic Prospects for India’s Textile Recycling
The Prime Minister projected that:
- India’s textile recycling market could reach USD 400 million in the coming years.
- The global recycled textile market is estimated to grow to USD 7.5 billion.
Bharat Tex: A Global Platform for the Textile Industry
Bharat Tex 2025, held from February 14-17 at Bharat Mandapam, is a premier global textile event. PM Modi highlighted its importance:
- Participation from over 120 countries
- More than 5000 exhibitors and 6000 international buyers
- Showcasing India’s textile diversity, including Lucknowi chikankari, bandhani, patola, Banarasi silk, Kanjivaram, and pashmina.
- Investment, innovation, and startup initiatives, including hackathons and funding opportunities.
India’s Vision for Textile Growth
PM Modi reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening its textile sector:
- Textile and apparel exports grew by 7% last year.
- India is now the sixth-largest exporter of textiles globally.
- The government aims to increase textile exports from Rs 3 lakh crore to Rs 9 lakh crore by 2030.