Textiles Secretary Reviews Industry Initiatives During Mumbai Visit

On November 13, 2025, Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary of the Ministry of Textiles, commenced a two-day visit to Mumbai to assess various textile institutions and export councils. The focus of the visit was to review ongoing programs, institutional performance, and the implementation of policies related to the textile sector.

Comprehensive Reviews of Textile Activities

During her first day in Mumbai, Smt. Rao, accompanied by Dr. M. Beena, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), reviewed activities concerning handlooms and allied sectors. This included discussions with Ms. Anshu Sinha, IAS, Principal Secretary (Textiles) from the Government of Maharashtra. The aim was to enhance cooperation between central and state government initiatives pertaining to various schemes.

The visit began with a detailed meeting at the Textiles Committee, where Smt. Rao evaluated the organization’s activities in accordance with the Textiles Committee Act of 1963. She advised a restructuring of the committee’s initiatives to better align with the evolving needs of the industry. Smt. Rao underscored the importance of integrating scientific, technical, and economic research into the committee’s functions to support the textile industry.

Advancing Research and Development

Following the initial meetings, Smt. Rao toured the Synthetic & Art Silk Mills’ Research Association (SASMIRA). The focus here was on ongoing research and development efforts in technical textiles, man-made fibers, and green textile innovations. She commended SASMIRA’s contributions to training, education, and the promotion of industrial testing facilities that bolster the competitiveness of the synthetic sector.

At the Weavers Service Centre, Smt. Rao and Dr. Beena evaluated the implementation of significant schemes such as the National Handloom Development Programme and the Cluster Development Programme. The discussion also covered marketing strategies like exhibitions and digital platforms aimed at enhancing the visibility of handloom products. Smt. Rao emphasized the necessity of incorporating technology and e-commerce into the handloom sector to expand both domestic and export markets.

Later, the delegation visited the Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council (TEXPROCIL), where dialogues centered on improving export competitiveness and diversifying markets for Indian cotton textiles. Smt. Rao acknowledged TEXPROCIL’s active role in supporting exporters through trade fairs and international branding efforts.

At the Man-made Textiles Export Promotion Council (MATEXIL), Smt. Rao reviewed challenges faced by synthetic and blended textile exporters. She advocated for sustainability-driven export practices and encouraged the council to leverage free trade agreements to enhance market access.

In the evening, a comprehensive review meeting took place at the Office of the Textile Commissioner. Key flagship schemes of the Ministry, including the PM MITRA Parks Scheme and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles, were discussed. Smt. Rao concluded her day by planning a meeting with major industry associations to gather feedback on policies and promote sustainability initiatives within the textile sector.

This visit underscores the Ministry of Textiles’ commitment to enhancing the sector’s performance through targeted initiatives and collaboration at both state and central levels. Smt. Rao’s proactive approach aims to foster a more competitive and sustainable textile industry in India.