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Kapil Agrawal Sees India Emerging As A Global Technical Textile Powerhouse

• By  Textile Excellence
• April 30, 2026

India’s technical textile industry is entering a decisive growth phase, driven by innovation, quality upgrades and rising global confidence, according to Mr Kapil Agrawal, Business Head, Textiles, Acrylic Fibre and Overseas Spinning at Aditya Birla Group. Speaking ahead of Techtextil Frankfurt 2026, Agrawal said Indian companies are steadily transforming from cost competitive suppliers into credible global solution providers.

“This is the first time the entire group is presenting under one roof,” Agrawal said, highlighting Aditya Birla Group’s integrated showcase spanning protective apparel, mobility textiles, home textiles and industrial applications. The company plans to position itself as a complete value chain partner at the exhibition.

Agrawal believes India’s technical textile ecosystem has matured significantly since 2016. “People have realised how important this segment is. They are willing to invest, innovate and meet global standards,” he noted.

The executive also addressed ongoing geopolitical disruptions and supply chain volatility affecting the industry. Rising raw material costs and longer lead times are placing pressure on manufacturers globally. “Something which was available in 45 days today can go as high as 90 days,” he observed, adding that uncertainty across the value chain is delaying procurement decisions and affecting plant utilisation.

Agrawal stressed that India’s competitive advantage now extends beyond pricing. Faster delivery, policy support, textile parks and stronger adherence to international quality benchmarks are helping Indian manufacturers strengthen their global standing. He pointed to flame retardant fibres and industrial applications as key innovation areas gaining traction worldwide.

Sustainability and digital transformation are also reshaping the sector. Agrawal said AI driven manufacturing systems are helping improve process consistency and quality precision, while traceability and digital product passports are rapidly becoming industry necessities. “Technical textiles also will eventually move to traceability and digital passport could be mandatory,” he said. 

Sustainability and digital transformation are also reshaping the sector. Agrawal said AI driven manufacturing systems are helping improve process consistency and quality precision, while traceability and digital product passports are rapidly becoming industry necessities. “Technical textiles also will eventually move to traceability and digital passport could be mandatory” he said.