The new policy will build on the 2019 textile policy, with an emphasis on making it more responsive to current industry demands.
The Tamil Nadu government is set to unveil a comprehensive textile policy aimed at addressing key issues impacting the state’s textile and apparel sector.
A senior official from the Department of Handlooms, Handicrafts, Textiles, and Khadi confirmed that the policy is nearing completion, with recent discussions held in Chennai with industry stakeholders to refine the details.
The new policy will build on the 2019 textile policy, with an emphasis on making it more responsive to current industry demands. The official assured that it would address the existing issues facing the industry and work towards strengthening the state’s textile ecosystem.
Industry leaders who took part in the discussions pointed out the excess production capacity across Tamil Nadu’s textile value chain and stressed the need for a policy shift towards modernising existing units.
The proposed modernisation would involve upgrading traditional powerlooms with newer, more efficient machines or retrofitting current equipment to enhance productivity and competitiveness.
Furthermore, sector representatives highlighted the importance of tackling environmental concerns, particularly the challenges faced by Common Effluent Treatment Plants (CETPs) in managing and disposing of sludge generated during wastewater treatment.
A major concern among industry stakeholders is the recent increase in electricity tariffs. The Southern India Mills Association (SIMA) has announced plans to conduct an impact assessment to evaluate the social and economic effects of the hike.
The association intends to submit a report to the government, requesting measures to alleviate the financial burden on textile mills, many of which are already facing increased production costs.
With a focus on sustainability and innovation, Tamil Nadu’s upcoming textile policy is expected to reinforce the state’s position as a leading textile hub in India while addressing industry challenges through modernisation.