The Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) and the Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA) organized the ‘Technical Textiles Conclave 2026’ at UKM Hall in Sarsana, Surat.
Held under the theme ‘Innovation in Textiles for a Smarter Tomorrow’, the conclave brought together experts from across the country to discuss developments in technical textiles, government policies, technology adoption and industry diversification opportunities for Surat’s textile sector.
During the event, experts highlighted the increasing global demand for technical textiles in sectors including defense, medical, construction, sports and infrastructure. Speakers noted that the expanding applications of technical textiles present growth opportunities for Surat-based textile businesses.
Ashok Jirawala, Vice President and President (Elect) of the Chamber, stated that the use of technical textiles is increasing globally. He said that the Indian government’s National Mission is expected to strengthen the competitiveness of Indian industry in the international market. He also encouraged entrepreneurs to diversify beyond conventional textiles and explore opportunities in technical textiles.
ITTA Vice Chairman Dr. Nandan Kumar said that the country’s MSME sector should progress from polymers to high-performance fibers.
Former Additional Textile Commissioner S.P. Verma stated that nearly 80 percent of man-made fibers (MMF) are utilized in technical textiles. He said this presents opportunities for Surat’s textile entrepreneurs and added that India could strengthen its position in technical textiles through high-end performance yarn production.
He further advised entrepreneurs to diversify into technical textiles over the next 5 to 10 years.
J.B. Dave, General Manager of DIC and Joint Commissioner of Industries, spoke about the Gujarat government’s textile policy and stated that technical textiles are being given special priority. He shared details regarding capital subsidy, power subsidy and interest subsidy schemes available for entrepreneurs.
He also said industries adopting renewable energy would receive additional benefits and highlighted the need for industries to upgrade operations in line with international regulations such as the European Union’s carbon tax requirements.
The conclave included four technical sessions featuring presentations and discussions by industry experts. The Diversification Strategy session focused on value-added technical textiles. The Defense Application session included a panel discussion on the role of technical textiles in defense applications.
The Geotextiles and Building Textiles session covered infrastructure and sustainable development applications, while the Sportec and Standardization session discussed sports textiles and quality standards.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by ITTA Director Dr. Dhaval Patel and Executive Director Anil Kumar Vasupillai. Textile entrepreneurs from Surat and South Gujarat attended the conclave.