New Delhi: The Government of India is stepping up its initiatives to promote a more sustainable and environmentally friendly textile industry. This was highlighted in a written reply by Minister of State for Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita, in the Rajya Sabha today.
Financial and Infrastructural Support: Under the National Handloom Development Program, the government is providing financial aid to State Governments. This assistance is for promoting natural and vegetable dyes and for setting up modern dye houses, using the ‘Mega Cluster Development Programme’ and ‘Need based Special Infrastructural Projects.’
Research & Development: The Ministry of Textiles has approved three new R&D projects focused on natural dyes. ICAR-CICR is also leading collaborative initiatives to develop organic cotton production practices, release new seed varieties for naturally coloured cotton, and increase its production.
Branding and Marketing: The India Handloom Brand (IHB) initiative certifies high-quality handloom products with “zero defects and zero effect on the environment.” The Textiles Committee registers products using natural dyes under this brand and helps with their marketing. A separate project, ‘Sustainability and Value Added in Agriculture Value Chain,’ is working to increase the supply of organic cotton in India and connect producers with global brands.
Awareness: Bharat Tex 2025 featured a dedicated showcase of organic fibers, like milkweed and cotton, along with natural dyes. This was done to generate public and industry awareness and encourage their wider adoption.
These comprehensive efforts underscore the government’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant, eco-friendly textile sector.