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Sustainability & Recycling

Rohit Kansal Calls On India’s Textile Sector To Use Sustainability As A Global Advantage

• By  Textile Excellence
• November 24, 2025

India’s textile and apparel industry must adopt sustainability as a strategic lever to strengthen its global standing, Union Textiles Ministry Additional Secretary Rohit Kansal said during a webinar hosted by CITI and Swaniti Initiative on the Industry Transition Readiness Index for Decarbonisation. He stressed that sustainability is no longer a compliance checkbox but a decisive factor that can differentiate Indian manufacturers in international markets.

Kansal highlighted that several textile hubs including Tiruppur, Surat and Panipat have demonstrated measurable progress in clean energy adoption, wastewater recycling and circular practices. The challenge, he noted, lies in extending this momentum to MSMEs, which account for a dominant share of the sector. He underlined the need for climate ready skill development and easier access to green finance, noting that a transition to low carbon processes require trained manpower. He added that the government will continue supporting MSMEs so the sustainability shift benefits all and leaves none behind.

CITI Chairman Ashwin Chandran said that aligning with India’s climate goals represents both responsibility and opportunity. India’s textile economy, valued at about US$ 180 billion in FY 2024 25, aims to reach US$ 350 billion by 2030, including US$ 100 billion in exports. The upcoming textile decarbonisation index is expected to help companies benchmark progress and adopt industry best practices. Sector experts believe stronger sustainability credentials will be vital for securing future gains, especially ahead of the FTA negotiations with the European Union where carbon transparency and ethical sourcing hold significant weight.

Kansal highlighted that several textile hubs including Tiruppur, Surat and Panipat have demonstrated measurable progress in clean energy adoption, wastewater recycling and circular practices. The challenge, he noted, lies in extending this momentum to MSMEs, which account for a dominant share of the sector.