Wool Production in India: States, Types and Industry Profil

Wool is a vital natural fibre used in winter clothing, carpets, floor coverings and several industrial products. With the world’s second-largest sheep population, “India” plays a significant role in global wool production, ranking ninth worldwide. The sector supports millions of livelihoods and spans both organised and unorganised segments of the textile economy.

India’s Wool Output and State-Wise Contribution

In FY24, India’s total wool production stood at 33.69 million kg. Rajasthan remained the largest producer, accounting for 16,013.50 thousand kg or 47.53 per cent of national output. Jammu & Kashmir followed with 7,770 thousand kg (23.06%). Other major producers included Karnataka, Telangana, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh, reflecting the wide geographical spread of sheep rearing across arid, semi-arid and hill regions.

Growth Trends and Wool Categories

Punjab recorded the highest annual growth rate in wool production at 22.04 per cent, followed by Tamil Nadu at 17.19 per cent and Gujarat at 3.20 per cent. India produces three main wool categories: Carpet Grade (85%), Apparel Grade (5%) and Coarser Grade (10%). The dominance of carpet-grade wool reflects the country’s strength in carpet and rug manufacturing rather than fine apparel wool.

Structure of the Wool Industry

The organised wool sector comprises composite mills, combing units, spinning mills, carpet manufacturing units and garment factories. The unorganised or decentralised sector includes handlooms, power looms, knitting and hosiery units, along with dyeing facilities. Together, these segments form a complex value chain connecting rural sheep rearers with urban and export markets.

Important Facts for Exams

• India ranks ninth globally in wool production.
• Rajasthan contributes nearly half of India’s total wool output.
• Carpet-grade wool forms the bulk of Indian production.
• Wool production supports both organised and unorganised sectors.

Employment and Sheep-Wise Contribution

The wool industry provides employment to around 1.2 million people in the organised sector and nearly two million in allied activities. Carpet weaving alone employs about 0.3 million workers. In terms of animal contribution, ewes account for the largest share of wool output at 71.13 per cent, followed by rams and wethers at 14.54 per cent and lambs at 14.33 per cent, underlining the economic importance of flock management in sustaining production.