Panipat: Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh met with over 150 textile manufacturers and exporters from Panipat, Haryana, during a high-level interaction aimed at addressing challenges and unlocking opportunities in the textiles sector. Organized by the Handloom Export Promotion Council (HEPC) in collaboration with the Panipat Exporters Association, the meeting highlighted key issues faced by Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and manufacturers in one of India’s most prominent textile hubs.
The Minister emphasized the importance of innovation in product development, urging the industry to explore blends like jute with bamboo and recycled cotton with synthetic fibers for floor coverings and carpets. He also stressed the adoption of green energy to meet factories’ energy needs and suggested collaboration between Panipat’s carpet industry and Kolkata’s jute sector to create sustainable products.
Policy discussions during the meeting revolved around infrastructure development, export promotion strategies, Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), and policy support for SMEs to enhance global competitiveness. Giriraj Singh outlined the government’s vision to expand India’s textile market to $350 billion and achieve exports worth $150 billion by 2030.
Development Commissioner (Handlooms) Dr. M. Beena, in her keynote address, highlighted the export potential of Panipat’s products and urged industry players to leverage emerging opportunities in international markets. Senior officials, including HEPC Chairperson Lalit Kumar Goel, also shared insights on aligning the sector with global demand trends.
During his Panipat visit, the Minister toured several leading handloom and textile manufacturing units, including Mahajan Overseas, Excellent Fabtex, and ASM Home Furnishing. Engaging with management teams, he explored innovative practices and reiterated the importance of integrating sustainable practices into production processes.
Representatives from the Panipat textile industry, including Ashok Gupta of Devgiri Exports and Vinod Dhamija of the Haryana Chamber of Commerce, shared their perspectives on the sector’s needs. They emphasized enhanced policy support and infrastructure improvements to sustain growth.
Panipat, often called the “City of Weavers,” is a leading hub for carpets, floor coverings, and woolen blankets. Recognized as a Town of Export Excellence under India’s Foreign Trade Policy, the cluster houses approximately 200 MSME units and generates exports worth ₹12,000 crores annually. Its products are globally sought after, featuring prominently in markets like the USA, Europe, Japan, and Australia.
With its legacy of craftsmanship and robust export potential, Panipat remains a critical pillar in India’s textile industry. This interaction underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the sector’s evolution while preserving its rich heritage.