India’s textile and apparel exports, including handicrafts, grew by 9.4% year-on-year in November 2025, reaching $2,855.8 million. Specific segments like readymade garments and handicrafts saw significant growth of 11.3% and 29.7%, respectively. To further boost global competitiveness, the government has adopted a strategy covering the entire value chain.
Key initiatives include the approval of seven PM MITRA Parks with a ₹4,445 crore outlay to create integrated textile infrastructure. Additionally, a ₹10,683 crore Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme is promoting the manufacture of man-made fiber apparel and technical textiles. The government is also providing support through technology upgrades and skill development programs to strengthen India’s global trade position.
Sustainability is becoming a core focus, with the Ministry of Textiles constituting an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Taskforce. This taskforce, involving industry and labor representatives, aims to identify “hotspots” in the value chain and support the transition toward resource-efficient production. While there is no current proposal for a separate sustainability council, the ESG platform is intended to lead the industry’s shift toward ethical and sustainable practices.