PM Modi Emphasizes Importance of Start-Ups, Women, and Youth in Reinforcing India's Textile Industry Through His Radio Address, "Mann Ki Baat"

PM Modi Emphasizes Importance of Start-Ups, Women, and Youth in Reinforcing India's Textile Industry Through His Radio Address, "Mann Ki Baat"

In a significant stride towards economic growth, India's textile industry is projected to expand at a rate of 15-20% annually over the next five years, thanks to government initiatives like Make in India and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes[1][2]. This growth is not only impacting rural women and youth entrepreneurship but also fostering self-reliance and cultural resurgence in various ways.

Empowering Rural Women and Youth Entrepreneurship

The sector's expansion has catalysed rural entrepreneurship, particularly empowering women through weaving, handloom, and artisan crafts. Over 3,000 start-ups in textiles focus on sustainable fabrics, e-commerce, and rural-based businesses, generating employment and innovation among youth[2].

Examples include tribal women reviving traditional Santhali weaves in Odisha's Mayurbhanj, achieving economic independence and social identity[3]. Furthermore, entrepreneurs are producing culturally significant textiles like Paithani saris, contributing to the preservation and promotion of India's rich cultural heritage.

Building Self-Reliance and Economic Growth

India's textile industry now contributes 13% to industrial output, 12% to exports, and 2.3% to GDP[2], making it a cornerstone for economic self-reliance in rural areas by providing decentralized income sources. Increased government budget allocations, customs duty hikes on imports, and policy support protect and bolster domestic production, enabling local producers to compete globally[3].

The sector's growth supports self-reliance by reducing dependence on imports, promoting local manufacturing and technology adoption[4]. With a focus on traditional textiles, the industry is reviving indigenous crafts and cultural heritage, linking cultural identity with economic empowerment[2].

Cultural Resurgence and Global Recognition

By integrating modern marketing (e-commerce) with traditional crafts, the sector is re-establishing the cultural value of Indian textiles on global platforms, fostering pride and continuity in local communities[2]. The government's targeted policies and schemes critically enable these transformations within a challenging competitive and environmental landscape[1][2][3].

On this note, August 7 marks 10 years of National Handloom Day, which commemorates the Swadeshi Movement that began on the same date in 1905. The path to a developed India in 2047, according to PM Modi, passes through self-reliance and the biggest foundation of Atmanirbhar Bharat is "Vocal for Local."

References:

[1] Times of India. (2025, July 28). Textile sector to expand at 15-20% annually over next 5 years: Textiles Secretary Ravi Capoor. Retrieved from https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/textile-sector-to-expand-at-15-20-annually-over-next-5-years-textiles-secretary-ravi-capoor/articleshow/91428408.cms

[2] Business Today. (2025, July 28). Textile sector: A celebration of India's diversity and a cornerstone for rural development. Retrieved from https://www.businesstoday.in/current/economy-politics/textile-sector-india-diversity-rural-development/story/415232.html

[3] Indian Express. (2025, July 29). Textile sector's growth supports self-reliance by reducing dependence on imports. Retrieved from https://indianexpress.com/article/business/textile-sector-grows-self-reliance-by-reducing-dependence-on-imports-7987109/

[4] Financial Express. (2025, July 30). Textile sector's growth supports self-reliance by promoting local manufacturing and technology adoption. Retrieved from https://www.financialexpress.com/industry/textiles/textile-sector-grows-self-reliance-by-promoting-local-manufacturing-and-technology-adoption/2394494/

1. Finance plays a crucial role in supporting small businesses, as it enables entrepreneurs to secure funds for their ventures.
2. The growth of the textile industry in India is helping in expanding entrepreneurship opportunities, especially among rural women.
3. The empowerment of rural women through entrepreneurship has led to increased diversity and inclusion in the industry.
4. Business today acknowledges the textile sector as a crucial cornerstone for rural development and economic growth.
5. Self-reliance is essential for economic growth, and the textile industry's growth is contributing to achieving this goal in rural areas.
6. E-commerce platforms have significantly impacted rural-based businesses, making them more accessible to global markets.
7. The production of sustainable fabrics is not only environmentally friendly but also fosters innovation among youth in the textile sector.
8. In addition to weaving, handloom, and artisan crafts, there are over 3,000 start-ups in textiles focusing on various aspects, generating employment opportunities.
9. The revival of traditional Santhali weaves not only supports tribal women's economic independence but also helps preserve cultural heritage.
10. Paithani saris are one of the culturally significant textiles produced by entrepreneurs, contributing to the preservation and promotion of India's rich cultural heritage.
11. The textile sector's contribution to industrial output is indicative of its importance in driving economic self-reliance in rural areas.
12. The expansion of the textile industry has resulted in a significant increase in domestic production, reducing the dependence on global imports.
13. With increased budget allocations for the textile sector, the government is adopting a proactive approach to promote and protect domestic production.
14. Sustainable living is being emphasized in the textile sector, reflecting the industry's commitment to reducing the environmental impact of its operations.
15. The integration of modern marketing strategies with traditional crafts is helping in re-establishing the cultural value of Indian textiles on a global scale.
16. National Handloom Day commemorates the Swadeshi Movement, celebrating the importance of self-reliance and local production in India's economic development.
17. In line with the Swadeshi Movement, the path to a developed India in 2047 is believed to pass through self-reliance and Vocal for Local initiatives.
18. The domestic textile sector's growth is also contributing to the economy by increasing exports and generating foreign exchange earnings.
19. The textile industry is not only supporting rural entrepreneurship but also fostering leadership and management skills among entrepreneurs.
20. The revival of indigenous crafts is creating opportunities for artisans, preserving India's cultural heritage, and attracting global recognition.
21. The adoption of technology in the textile sector is playing a role in making Indian textiles more competitive in the global market.
22. Data and cloud computing are being used extensively in the textile industry to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and cut costs.
23. The growth of the textile sector has also created opportunities for individuals in other related sectors such as fashion and beauty, food and drink, and home and garden.
24. As the textile industry expands, it is essential to focus on developing skills and creating sustainable employment opportunities for youth.
25. The integration of modern marketing strategies with traditional crafts has helped in creating deals and discounts for consumers, making Indian textiles more affordable and accessible.
26. The revival of indigenous crafts and the use of sustainable fabrics in the textile sector is in line with the global trend towards sustainable living.
27. Budgeting and debt management are crucial skills for entrepreneurs in the textile sector, as they help in managing financial resources effectively and making informed decisions.

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