The year 2013 was of mixed type for Indian textile industry. On the one hand the mill sector (spinning/weaving) had a good year, the decentralised powerloom weaving sector had one or the other hiccups like power cuts, high tariff in power

Exports of Indian MMF textiles were not encouraging during 2012-13. The exports of man-made fibre textile which grew consistently during last 10 years have declined by 9 per cent during 2012-13 compared to the previous year and amounted only US $5.37 billion.

Our industry is here to stay! As I am writing these lines, the year 2013 is coming to an end, time to take stock of what has happened. I would request my readers to keep in mind, that what follows are the simple thoughts of a mechanical engineer

Indian textile industry is the second largest in the world, next to China. But the gap between the No 1 and No 2 is huge. If we go back to the 50s, India used to have a larger market share in the textile & clothing – say about 13 per cent.

We expect a good cotton and signs are already there. With this there will be certainly good export of yarn and garments in 2014. China is already importing a lot of cotton yarn, particularly up to 60s count.

We expect a good cotton and signs are already there. With this there will be certainly good export of yarn and garments in 2014. China is already importing a lot of cotton yarn, particularly up to 60s count.

The year 2013 has witnessed mixed fortunes for yarns and fabric. After initial brightness there has been sluggishness. Of course there appears to be little relief ahead in view of some movements.