To advance the technical textiles sector in India—including the fast-growing segment of agro-textiles—the Ministry of Textiles launched the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) in 2020. Under this mission, 14 research projects dedicated to agro-textile development have been approved.
In addition, a Climate-Smart Agro-Textile Demonstration Centre was set up in Navsari, Gujarat, in December 2024 at a total cost of ₹3.73 crore. The centre aims to promote innovative and sustainable agro-textile applications through live demonstrations, farmer training, and awareness programmes. These initiatives are designed to boost farm productivity, lower cultivation costs, strengthen climate resilience, and encourage environmentally responsible practices. The facility is operated by the Synthetic & Art Silk Mills’ Research Association (SASMIRA), and so far, 576 farmers have received training at the centre.
The National Technical Textiles Mission is a nationwide initiative focused on promoting technical textiles across India. Recognising the critical role of agro-textiles in improving agricultural sustainability and productivity, the mission places strategic emphasis on this sector. Its interventions cover Research & Innovation, Market Development, Export Promotion, and Skilling.
Research & Development Projects on Agro-Textiles Approved Under NTTM
- Insecticide incorporated Agronets: Green Technology to minimize the insecticide burden to biosphere
Implementing Institute: DRL (DRDO), Assam
- Development of long lasting and biodegradable electrospun/needle-punch nonwoven composite mulch using natural fibrous wastes
Implementing Institute: IIT Delhi
- Evaluation of natural fibre-based agro-textile products in protected eco-friendly structures for high-value horticultural crops
Implementing Institute: IIT Kharagpur
- Functional textiles for tackling organophosphate insecticides, pesticides and nerve agents’ toxicity
Implementing Institute: IIT Indore
- Use of jute agro textiles as mulching material in mango-based intercropping systems for improved productivity and livelihood security
Implementing Institute: Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswa Vidyalaya, West Bengal
- Sustainable use of unconventional fibres of the Indian Himalayas for agro-textiles
Implementing Institute: CSK HP Agricultural University, Palampur
- Development of natural herbal extract–coated seed protection bags with long-lasting mechanical and insecticidal properties
Implementing Institute: SITRA, Coimbatore
- Development of crop cover, mulch, soil-protection fabrics and other products using sunhemp and banana fibre
Implementing Institute: NITRA, Ghaziabad
- Development of energy-responsive agro-textiles for low-cost off-season vegetable/fruit cultivation
Implementing Institute: SASMIRA, Mumbai
- Development of eco-friendly natural fibre–based sustainable agro-textiles for packaging with protection against rodents, microorganisms, and UV exposure
Implementing Institute: WRA, Mumbai
- Development of jute bags for protection and quality preservation of stored seeds
Implementing Institute: ICAR – Kolkata
- Natural fibre waste to planting growth media for soilless cultivation systems
Implementing Institute: ICAR – Kolkata
- Development of tunable agro-textiles with smart functionalities for enhanced crop production
Implementing Institute: CSIR–CLRI, Chennai
- Development of foam-in-place packaging using agricultural residue
Implementing Institute: IIT Kanpur
This information was shared by Minister of State for Textiles Shri Pabitra in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.