Is the DMK Right to Criticize the Centre Over U.S. Tariffs Affecting Tiruppur's Textile Industry?
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Synopsis
The DMK has raised alarms about the detrimental effects of U.S. tariffs on Tamil Nadu's textile exports. As Tiruppur and Coimbatore face an industrial crisis, the ruling party's editorial criticizes the Centre's inaction. Will the government step in to save the industries at risk?
Key Takeaways
- U.S. tariffs are severely impacting Tamil Nadu's textile exports.
- Approximately five lakh jobs are at risk in Tiruppur.
- The DMK is calling for immediate government intervention.
- Local industries are struggling to retain U.S. buyers.
- Political implications are significant as the BJP targets traditional AIADMK strongholds.
Chennai, Sep 3 (NationPress) Highlighting the escalating effects of U.S. tariffs on Tamil Nadu's textile exports, the ruling DMK has on Wednesday criticized the BJP-led Centre for its inaction regarding the crisis that threatens the industrial belt in the western part of the state, especially in Tiruppur and Coimbatore.
In a powerful editorial, the DMK's official publication Murasoli emphasized that Tamil Nadu's western districts contribute a considerable portion of India's textile and hosiery exports to the United States.
The article pointed out that Tiruppur alone exports textiles valued at nearly Rs 12,000 crore annually to the U.S. However, with the current tariffs, the area is facing severe disruptions.
Murasoli reported that approximately five lakh workers in Tiruppur could potentially face job losses, and around 3,000 industrial units might shut down if no relief measures are enacted.
“The U.S. tariffs have thrown the western region into turmoil. What actions will the BJP government take to safeguard Tiruppur and Coimbatore?” the editorial questioned.
The DMK publication accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of prioritizing corporate interests while neglecting the struggling industries in Tamil Nadu.
“Has PM Modi done anything to protect the industries in Tiruppur and Coimbatore?” it challenged.
The editorial also reflected the worries of local hosiery trade unions, who have called for the Centre to intervene urgently. Reportedly, exporters in Tiruppur are offering substantial discounts to keep U.S. buyers, while many units relying solely on the American market have ceased production entirely.
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, as noted by Murasoli, had already warned of such repercussions.
Furthering its critique, the DMK publication accused the Centre of enhancing duty drawback benefits for jewellery exporters in Gujarat, while leaving Tamil Nadu's textile sector overlooked.
It demanded that the Prime Minister promptly announce a “special fund package” to safeguard the industries and workforce in the western region.
The issue holds political relevance as well. The western districts, which have been traditional AIADMK strongholds, are now being actively pursued by the BJP in its electoral plans.
In this context, Murasoli questioned whether the Centre would take steps to protect industries in a region it is politically courting.
Point of View
The ongoing crisis in Tamil Nadu's textile sector due to U.S. tariffs highlights the need for government intervention. The DMK's criticisms reflect a broader concern for local industries, emphasizing the importance of balancing corporate interests with the welfare of workers and communities.
NationPress
03/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the impacts of U.S. tariffs on Tamil Nadu's textile industry?
U.S. tariffs have significantly disrupted Tamil Nadu's textile exports, particularly impacting Tiruppur and Coimbatore, threatening jobs and industrial stability.
How many workers could be affected by the tariff crisis?
Approximately five lakh workers in Tiruppur may face job losses if the crisis continues without government intervention.
What is the DMK's stance on the Centre's response to the crisis?
The DMK has criticized the BJP-led Centre for its inaction, urging immediate relief measures to protect Tamil Nadu's textile workers and industries.
What has Chief Minister M.K. Stalin said about the situation?
Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has previously warned of the repercussions of the tariff crisis on Tamil Nadu's textile sector.
Are there any calls for government support?
Yes, the DMK and local trade unions have demanded the Centre to announce a special fund package to support the textile industry in the western region.
