PROMOTION OF TEXTILE EXPORTS

Why in news

India's textile and apparel exports, including handicrafts, have shown an increase over the period from 2023-24 to 2025-26, with specific data released detailing commodity-wise and country-wise export performance.

Exam relevance

GS3 · Economy · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. India's textile and apparel exports, including handicrafts, increased from ₹2,97,004 crore in 2023–24 to ₹3,25,339 crore in 2025–26.
2. The exports registered a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.7% during the period from 2023-24 to 2025-26.
3. Readymade Garments constituted the largest share of exports, increasing from ₹1,20,305 crore in 2023-24 to ₹1,39,350 crore in 2025-26.
4. Cotton Textiles and Man-Made Textiles were other significant export commodities.
5. The USA was the largest market for India's textile and apparel exports, followed by Bangladesh, UAE, UK, and Germany.

Prelims pointers

• CAGR of India's textile and apparel exports from 2023-24 to 2025-26 was 4.7%.
• Readymade Garments are the largest component of India's textile and apparel exports.
• The USA is the top export destination for Indian textiles and apparel.
• Overall trend of India's textile and apparel exports (including handicrafts) is increasing.

Mains practice question

Analyze the significance of the textile and apparel sector for India's economy, particularly in the context of its export performance. Discuss the key factors influencing its growth and the challenges it faces in the global market.

Static linkage

The textile sector is one of the oldest and largest industries in India, playing a crucial role in the country's economy, employment generation, and foreign exchange earnings. It is closely linked to agricultural output (cotton, jute, silk, wool) and provides employment to a large number of skilled and semi-skilled workers, particularly women. Government policies often aim to boost manufacturing, enhance competitiveness, and promote exports in this sector.

Significance

The growth in textile and apparel exports signifies the sector's resilience and its continued contribution to India's economic growth and foreign exchange reserves. It highlights the potential for job creation, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, and supports the 'Make in India' initiative by promoting domestic manufacturing. The diversification of export markets and commodities also indicates a strengthening of India's position in the global textile trade, fostering better trade relations and economic stability.

Way forward

Not specified in source