The Ministry of Textiles, led by Secretary Smt. Neelam Shami Rao held the fourth meeting of its ESG Task Force, bringing together a wide spectrum of stakeholders to help define a sustainable vision for India’s textiles and apparel industry.

The session included participation from senior ministry officials such as Additional Secretary Shri Rohit Kansal, Textile Commissioner Dr. M. Beena, Joint Secretary (Fibre) Smt. Padmini Singla, Economic Advisor, Ms. Renu Lata from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Deputy Director General Shri Ashok Kumar from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency, as well as representatives from related ministries, industry associations, brands, multilateral agencies, and other key players. The entire textile value chain was present through leading associations and sector experts. During the meeting, Smt. Rao highlighted ongoing sustainability efforts in textile hubs like Tiruppur, Surat, and Panipat, citing initiatives such as wastewater recycling, renewable energy adoption, and textile waste management. She emphasised the need to expand these practices nationally through collective action, underscoring that sustainability is now a necessity for the future of India’s textile sector.

Shri Kansal reinforced the point, noting sustainability’s deep roots in Indian tradition and the growing importance of sustainable practices in the industry. He outlined government and industry actions, including cluster-level initiatives, skilling programs, and the push to integrate sustainability as a competitive advantage for Indian textiles globally. He referenced the Prime Minister’s call for India to lead in “Fashion for Environment and Empowerment.” The Ministry presented its vision for the sector and invited input from stakeholders to collaboratively develop a comprehensive roadmap. The meeting included a consultation on the draft Roadmap 2047 for a sustainable, circular, and resource-efficient textile industry. Key discussion points included raising awareness across the value chain, building capacity, fostering research and innovation, and disseminating knowledge. Stakeholders also discussed the need for unified sustainability standards, streamlined compliance, and a balanced approach between voluntary and regulatory measures to promote circularity. Further deliberations focused on aligning national policies with global ESG trends, green finance, and responsible consumption patterns. The meeting concluded with a collective commitment from all participants to support the development of a revised policy framework, with industry representatives expressing appreciation for the Ministry’s inclusive and action-oriented approach.