Is the Government Targeting Carbon Neutrality in the Textiles Sector by 2030?
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Synopsis
The Indian government plans to achieve a staggering $350 billion textiles sector goal by 2030, with a focus on carbon neutrality. Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh emphasizes the importance of cotton as the backbone of agriculture and highlights the need for sustainability. This ambitious initiative could reshape India's agricultural landscape and its global textile standing.
Key Takeaways
- Government's target: $350 billion for textiles by 2030.
- Carbon neutrality: Aiming for sustainability in the textiles sector.
- Cotton's significance: Represents the core of Indian agriculture.
- Collaborative efforts: Stakeholders need to work together.
- Focus on natural fibers: Emphasizing sustainable alternatives.
New Delhi, Oct 8 (NationPress) The government has set an ambitious goal to not only reach the $350 billion target for the textiles sector by 2030, which includes $100 billion in exports, but also to pursue carbon neutrality, as stated by Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh.
He emphasized that cotton is more than just a crop; it embodies the essence of Indian agriculture, symbolizing the farmer’s hard work, perseverance, and aspirations.
At an event organized by the Ministry of Textiles and Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI), the minister extended his wishes to cotton farmers on World Cotton Day, noting that “each strand of cotton tells the tale of our farmers — their labor under the intense sun, their hopes for rain, and their steadfast belief in the land.”
Singh pointed out that climate change and environmental sustainability present significant challenges for the sector.
He stressed the importance of judicious use of water and electricity, urging collective action to safeguard nature.
“Effective water management, soil preservation, and the adoption of renewable energy sources are crucial for protecting India’s mainly rain-fed cotton regions and ensuring that farmers’ efforts lead to lasting prosperity,” Singh remarked.
The minister further mentioned that this transformation is achievable only when all stakeholders, from farmers to textile exporters, collaborate as one community.
Despite India hosting 40 percent of the world’s cotton cultivation area, its productivity stands at around 450 kg per hectare, significantly lower than the 2,000 kg per hectare seen in many other nations.
The actively considered Mission for Cotton Productivity aims to bridge this gap.
Singh also highlighted the increase in Minimum Support Prices (MSP) over the past decade as evidence of the Government’s commitment to farmer welfare.
He pointed out the future potential of natural fibers like milkweed, ramie, and flax, asserting that Indian farmers possess the strength and wisdom to lead global sustainable fiber production. “The world is shifting towards eco-friendly products, and our farmers can illuminate the way forward,” he added.
Minister of State for Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, remarked that India must aim for a leading role in quality, sustainability, and ethical manufacturing.
He noted that the Kasturi Cotton initiative could significantly contribute to the ‘5F’ (farm-fiber-factory-fashion-foreign) vision of the Government, and hinted at the potential for deeper ties between India and Russia in the textiles and apparel sector.
Point of View
The government's commitment to carbon neutrality in the textiles sector by 2030 is a commendable step towards sustainable development. It highlights the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the prosperity of India's farmers while addressing pressing environmental concerns. This initiative can enhance India's global standing in the textiles industry while promoting eco-friendly practices.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the government's target for the textiles sector by 2030?
The government aims to achieve a target of $350 billion for the textiles sector, which includes $100 billion in exports.
What does carbon neutrality mean for the textiles sector?
Carbon neutrality refers to the balance between emitting carbon and absorbing it from the atmosphere, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of the textiles industry.
How does cotton relate to Indian agriculture?
Cotton is considered the heart of Indian agriculture, reflecting farmers' hard work, resilience, and aspirations.
What role do natural fibers play in the future of textiles?
Natural fibers like milkweed, ramie, and flax have significant potential for sustainable production, aligning with the global shift towards eco-friendly products.
How will the Mission for Cotton Productivity help farmers?
The Mission for Cotton Productivity aims to boost efficiency and productivity in cotton farming, addressing the current productivity gap compared to other countries.
