GOVERNMENT OF INDIA’S PUSH FOR SUSTAINABLE AND ETHICAL YARN PRODUCTION

As environmental challenges continue to rise, the fashion and textile industry faces mounting pressure to adopt sustainable and ethical practices. Recognising the environmental impact of conventional textile production, the Government of India has taken significant steps to encourage the adoption of sustainable and ethical yarn production. This push is aimed at reducing the industry’s carbon footprint, conserving natural resources, and ensuring fair labour practices.

In this blog, we will explore the various initiatives, policies, and incentives that the Indian government has introduced to support the transition to sustainable yarn production, and why this shift is crucial for both the environment and the economy.


India’s Textile Industry: An Environmental Concern

India is one of the largest producers of textiles globally, contributing around 5% of global trade in textiles and apparel. However, the industry is also resource-intensive, with traditional yarn production consuming large amounts of water, energy, and chemicals. Conventional cotton farming alone accounts for 25% of global pesticide use, leading to soil degradation and water pollution.

Moreover, textile waste is a growing concern in India, with millions of tonnes of fabric waste generated each year. The government’s shift toward sustainable yarn production aims to address these environmental challenges while promoting responsible production practices.


Key Government Initiatives Supporting Sustainable Yarn Production

  1. National Fibre Policy (2010): The National Fibre Policy was introduced to promote the use of natural fibres like organic cotton and jute. By incentivising the production of organic cotton, the policy encourages the adoption of sustainable farming practices, reducing the environmental impact of cotton cultivation.
  2. Sustainable Textiles for Sustainable Development (SusTex): Launched by the Ministry of Textiles, the SusTexprogramme promotes research and development in sustainable textile production. It focuses on encouraging the use of eco-friendly fibres, reducing water usage, and minimising the environmental impact of textile manufacturing processes.
  3. GRS (Global Recycle Standard) Certification Support: The government encourages Indian textile manufacturers to obtain GRS certification, which ensures that products are made from recycled materials. This certification plays a crucial role in promoting recycled yarn production, reducing reliance on virgin resources, and supporting the circular economy.
  4. Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (TUFS): To support the adoption of advanced, eco-friendly machinery in the textile sector, the TUFS programme offers financial assistance to manufacturers. This initiative encourages the modernisation of machinery to enable more efficient and sustainable yarn production.
  5. Promotion of Organic Cotton: Through various subsidies and support schemes, the government promotes the cultivation of organic cotton, which uses no harmful pesticides and significantly reduces water usage compared to conventional cotton farming. India is now the largest producer of organic cotton, accounting for 51% of global production.


The Role of Ethical Production in Yarn Manufacturing


Beyond sustainability, the Indian government is also focused on promoting ethical yarn production , which includes ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and protecting workers’ rights. The push for  ethical production is aligned with global movements like  Fair Trade and the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) standards.

  1. Make in India Initiative: Under the Make in India initiative, the government is encouraging the adoption of sustainable practices in the textile sector while ensuring that production is carried out ethically. This includes promoting fair wages, gender equality in the workforce, and improving overall labour conditions.
  2. Labour Reforms: The Code on Wages Act (2019) and other labour reforms aim to provide fair wages and improved working conditions for workers in the textile industry. These reforms are crucial to ensuring that the shift to sustainable yarn production is accompanied by ethical practices across the supply chain.


The Environmental and Economic Benefits of Sustainable Yarn Production

The government’s push for sustainable yarn production is not only an environmental necessity but also a significant economic opportunity. The global demand for sustainable fashion is growing rapidly, with consumers increasingly favouring eco-friendly and ethically produced textiles. India, as a major textile exporter, stands to benefit from aligning its production processes with these evolving market demands.

  1. Reduced Environmental Impact: Sustainable yarn production, especially the use of recycled yarn and organic fibres, significantly reduces the environmental impact of the textile industry. Organic cotton farming, for example, uses 91% less water and produces 46% fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional cotton farming.
  2. Increased Export Potential: As international buyers increasingly prioritise sustainable products, Indian manufacturers that adopt sustainable yarn production practices are better positioned to tap into global markets. The global sustainable textiles market is projected to grow to USD 16.8 billion by 2032, offering a significant opportunity for Indian producers.
  3. Job Creation and Skill Development: The government’s focus on sustainable and ethical production has the potential to create new job opportunities in the textile industry. The shift toward eco-friendly production processes requires skilled labour for the operation of advanced machinery and the implementation of sustainable practices, contributing to the growth of India’s workforce.


Maatrishakti: Supporting India’s Vision for Sustainable Yarn Production

At Maatrishakti Ecospin Pvt. Ltd., we fully align with the Indian government’s push for sustainable and ethical yarn production. Our commitment to eco-friendly practices is reflected in our production of recycled yarn, which contributes to reducing textile waste, conserving water, and minimising the carbon footprint of the fashion industry.

With our state-of-the-art European machinery and expertise in producing sustainable yarn, Maatrishakti is leading the way in providing high-quality, environmentally responsible yarn that meets global standards. Our recycled cotton and polyester yarns are designed to support the circular economy, reducing reliance on virgin resources while ensuring top-tier performance and durability.

Maatrishakti also prioritises ethical production, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and gender equality in our workforce. By choosing Maatrishakti, you are partnering with a company that not only delivers premium sustainable yarn but also supports India’s vision for a more responsible and ethical textile industry. We are proud to contribute to India’s leadership in sustainable fashion, offering solutions that help brands meet the growing demand for eco-conscious products.