New Delhi, Oct 27, 2022, By Special Correspondent

New Delhi, Oct 27: Textile manufacturers should start securing cotton to meet their demands, Union Minister of Textiles Piyush Goyal said.

Besides, all those involved with cotton industry should meet to discuss the strategy to ensure traceability of cotton and better value of the cotton products, he said during a video conference on Wednesday with members of Export Promotion Councils.

The virtual meeting was convened with senior representatives of all the 11 Export Promotion Councils under the Ministry of Textiles including Apparel Export Promotion Council, Cotton Textiles Export Promotion Council, and Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts.

Representatives of industry associations like he Confederation of Indian Textile Industry, Tiruppur Exporters Association and The Southern India Mills’ Association also participated.

Goyal said that a two-day meeting should be organized to discuss new ideas on strengthening the textile sector. At least 50% participants should be youngsters and there should be involvement of Quality Control of India (QCI), Commerce, DPIIT, Finance, Banking Export Insurance for holistic engagement so that overarching themes may be discussed.

The Union Minister said that last year, textile export was to the tune of 42 billion USD while the target is to achieve 100 billion USD by next 5-6 years. 

He mentioned that if achieved, the domestic and international economic value of the sector will be 250 billion USD collectively.

Goyal said that funds available under Textile Mission and should be utilized in new projects and added that the potential of Textile Sector may be showcased in G-20. 

Participation of industry representatives in the shopping festivals recently announced by the Finance Minister may also be pursued, he added.