By Suketu Shah, CEO, Vishal Fabrics Ltd.
Every year, National Handloom Day reminds us of the deep roots that the textile industry has in India’s cultural and economic history. While we honour the skill and legacy behind handwoven fabrics, it is also a time to take stock of where the industry is headed. Today, the textile sector is going through a period of real change, and India stands at a point where tradition and technology are beginning to work side by side.
Making Production Smarter
Textiles may be an age-old industry, but the way we produce fabrics has been changing steadily. Over the last few years, more and more manufacturers have started using new tools, automated machines, digital design software, and better data tracking systems. This isn’t about replacing people. It is about improving how we work.
Reports suggest that India’s textile and apparel market could reach USD 350 billion by 2030 (IBEF). To grow in this direction, adapting to new methods of production is essential.
The textile industry has been focusing on areas like dyeing, finishing, and packaging, where technology helps us be more efficient. Machines today can do certain tasks with greater accuracy and speed, reducing waste and improving output. But what is more important is that these improvements help us meet the quality expectations of customers across the world.
Working with Less, Doing More
One of the biggest concerns facing the industry today is the environmental cost of manufacturing. Textiles use a lot of water and energy. According to the UN, the broader fashion sector accounts for around 10% of global carbon emissions and a significant share of wastewater.
For textile companies, this is not just a policy issue, it is a responsibility. There is growing awareness that we must reduce how much we consume, whether it is water, electricity, or chemicals.
We have taken steps in this direction by using dyeing processes that require less water, setting up systems to treat and reuse wastewater, and shifting parts of our energy use to renewable sources. These are practical choices, driven not just by compliance, but by a long term view of the business.
Helping People Keep Up
Technology has its place, but the heart of this industry is still its people. In India, textiles support over 45 million jobs. So even as machines take on more tasks, we need to ensure that people aren’t left behind.
Upskilling is a big part of that. At our units, we regularly train workers on how to use new machines, follow quality procedures, and understand how sustainability fits into day-to-day work. It is not just about learning to use equipment, it is about staying confident and adaptable.
The idea is simple: change should be inclusive. If we are bringing in better tools, we must also bring everyone along with it.
Looking Beyond the Usual Markets
Recent trade developments have been a mixed bag for exporters. The UK-India Free Trade Agreement has been a step forward, with duty benefits on many textile products. At the same time, the US decision to impose 25% tariffs on Indian textiles has added fresh challenges especially for companies that already operate on thin margins.
In this context, we have started exploring other markets. Latin America is one of them. It is a region that is seeing growing demand for affordable, good-quality fabrics. While it is still early days, we believe there is potential there, provided we can adapt our approach and stay responsive to what buyers are looking for.
Looking Ahead
On National Handloom Day, as we celebrate the strength of our heritage, it is equally important to plan. The textile industry is evolving, and India has the skills, scale, and commitment to play a larger role globally.
Technology will not replace tradition it can help preserve it. It can ease production pressures, reduce environmental impact, and open new markets. But only if we use it thoughtfully, and in a way that includes the people and practices that got us here.
India’s future in textiles lies in this balance: between speed and care, scale and sustainability, machines and human hands.