National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026 Begins in Guwahati

The National Textiles Ministers’ Conference 2026, organised by the Ministry of Textiles in collaboration with the Government of Assam, will commence on January 8 in Guwahati. The two-day conference brings together Textile Ministers and senior officials from States and Union Territories to deliberate on the future direction of India’s textile sector amid evolving global and domestic challenges.

Theme and National Vision

The conference is being held under the theme “India’s Textiles: Weaving Growth, Heritage & Innovation”. It aligns with the Government of India’s vision of positioning the country as a global textile manufacturing hub by 2030. The discussions will focus on boosting exports, generating employment, and ensuring inclusive growth in line with the ethos of “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”, which emphasises development alongside preservation of heritage.

Inaugural Session and Exhibition

The inaugural session on January 8 will be attended by Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, and Minister of State for Textiles Pabitra Margherita, along with other dignitaries. The opening will also feature an exhibition and pavilion showcasing India’s textile heritage, innovation, and manufacturing capabilities.

Key Policy and Sectoral Deliberations

The conference will include sessions on infrastructure and investment, expansion of textile exports, raw materials and fibres, technical textiles, new-age fibres, and preservation of handlooms and handicrafts. Special focus will be placed on flagship initiatives such as the PM Mega Integrated Textile Regions and Apparel (PM MITRA) Parks, sustainability and environmental compliance, and integrated value-chain development. States and Union Territories are expected to share best practices, policy challenges, and regional strategies to strengthen the textile ecosystem.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• PM MITRA Parks aim to create integrated textile value chains.
• India targets becoming a global textile manufacturing hub by 2030.
• The textile sector is a major source of employment in India.
• Handlooms and handicrafts are key components of India’s textile heritage.

Focus on North-Eastern Textile Potential

A dedicated conclave on “Strengthening and Empowering the Textiles Sector of the North-Eastern Region of India” will be held on January 8. The conclave will focus on unlocking the potential of the region’s silk, handloom, handicrafts, and bamboo-based textiles, with emphasis on Eri, Muga and Mulberry silk, women-led enterprises, branding, and market access. The conference is expected to strengthen Centre–State collaboration and lay out a roadmap for a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive textile sector.