Maharashtra’s Push for Technical Textiles: Policies & Progress

Snehal Dhamdhere
Head- Sales & Marketing
The Bombay Textile Research Association

Market Overview and Government support

Technical textiles are textile materials and products are the material for their technical performance and functional properties, rather than for aesthetics or decorative purposes.

  • Market Size: India’s technical textiles market was valued at USD 20.27 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 28.69 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 6%
  • Key Segments: Prominent segments include Packtech, Mobiltech, Meditech, Agrotech, and Geotech
  • Technological Trends: Advancements in 3D weaving, nanotechnology, and finishing treatments are driving innovation and growth in the sector.

Maharashtra’s Role in Technical Textiles

Government of Maharashtra’s Support for Technical Textiles

The Government of Maharashtra has introduced several policies and initiatives aimed at promoting technical textiles as part of its broader textile development strategy.

Infrastructure & Policy Support

  • Technical Textile Parks: The state plans to develop six Technical Textile Parks in collaboration with private players, offering capital subsidies up to 55% for investments ranging from INR 400 crore to INR 1,000 crore . 
  • Capital Subsidies: Textile units can avail capital subsidies up to 45%, depending on the zone and size of the enterprise. Additional incentives are provided for units led by women, SC/STs, minorities, and ex-servicemen. 
  • Technology Upgradation Fund (MAHA-TUF): A dedicated committee recommends eligible machinery for capital subsidies, facilitating modernization and innovation in textile manufacturing. 

Sustainability Initiatives

  • Green Technology Support: Incentives are provided for the construction of Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs), Zero Liquid Discharge (ZLD) plants, and solar energy installations, promoting environmentally sustainable practices in the textile industry. 
  • Recycling Initiatives: The policy encourages investment in textile recycling projects, aiming to reduce waste and promote a circular economy within the sector.

Research & Development

  • Centers of Excellence (CoEs): Maharashtra hosts four of India’s eight CoEs in technical textiles, focusing on areas such as Agrotech, Sportech, Non-wovens, and Geotech, fostering innovation and specialized research . 
  • Budget Allocation: A provision of INR 50 crore has been allocated for research activities in technical textiles, supporting the development of advanced materials and technologies.

Skill Development & Capacity Building

  • Training Programs: The policy emphasizes skill development to ensure a skilled workforce for the textile industry, enhancing employability and productivity. 
  • Gender Inclusivity: Special initiatives are in place to encourage women’s participation at all levels of management in the textile industry, promoting gender balance and empowerment.

Future Outlook

  • Investment Goals: The state aims to attract investments worth INR 25,000 crore and generate employment for up to 5 lakh individuals in the textile sector by 2028 
  • Export Potential: With the growing demand for specialized textiles globally, Maharashtra is positioning itself as a hub for the production and export of technical textiles, enhancing its presence in international markets.

Conclusion

Maharashtra’s comprehensive policy framework and strategic initiatives are fostering a conducive environment for the growth of the technical textiles sector. By leveraging infrastructure development, technological advancements, sustainability practices, and skill development, the state is poised to become a leader in the global technical textiles market.

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