The Rise of India’s Technical Textiles Industry

R.Indrajith, SITRA, Coimbatore 

India’s technical textiles industry is witnessing rapid growth, transforming the textile landscape with high-performance fabrics tailored for functionality over aesthetics. These specialized textiles cater to diverse sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, construction, and automotive, driving significant market expansion.

Technical textiles, defined by their functional and technical applications, are classified like Agrotech, Buildtech, Geotech, and Meditech. Products range from fireproofing materials and protective gear to medical sutures and biodegradable farming nets. This versatility positions technical textiles as essential components across industries.

The demand for technical textiles is booming, largely influenced by the automotive, healthcare, construction, and infrastructure sectors. For instance, Mobiltech, which supplies materials for vehicles, has seen an unprecedented surge, driven by innovations like airbags and insulation felts. Similarly, Protech textiles, used in protective gear such as bulletproof jackets and fire-retardant clothing, are critical for safety and defense.

Government policies and initiatives have further accelerated the sector’s growth. Backed by technological advancements and supportive frameworks, the industry is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5-12.5% between 2024 and 2028, reaching ₹3,380-3,420 billion.

This remarkable trajectory underscores the growing importance of technical textiles in shaping India’s industrial and economic future. With innovation at its core, the sector is poised for a transformative impact on both domestic and global markets.