Rajya Sabha member and industrialist Rajinder Gupta, founder of the Trident Group and MP from Ludhiana, called on Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in New Delhi to discuss key issues facing India’s textile industry and explore policy solutions for strengthening its competitiveness. 

The meeting, described as a constructive exchange, covered the current economic landscape, structural challenges confronting textiles, and prospects for enhancing the sector’s contribution to national growth. Gupta highlighted the significance of the textile industry for Punjab and North India’s economy, while also acknowledging the government’s economic reforms that have supported business resilience even amid global headwinds. 

Key Industry Challenges and Strategic Suggestions

During the discussion, Gupta outlined several critical concerns and suggestions aimed at improving the operational environment for Textile manufacturers and exporters:

• Raw Material Availability: Stressing stable and affordable access to essential inputs for textile production, Gupta emphasised that consistent raw material supply is vital for sustaining competitiveness in domestic and international markets. 

• Export Incentive Rationalisation: He called for reviewing and rationalising export incentive schemes to ensure they better align with current global market dynamics and support export growth. 

• MSME Financial Support: Recognising the dominance of small and medium enterprises in the sector, Gupta urged enhanced financial support mechanisms tailored to the needs of MSMEs, particularly for technology adoption, working capital, and scaling operations. 

Gupta expressed confidence that flagship policies such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat will continue to play a decisive role in positioning India as a global manufacturing hub. He reiterated the need for policy stability and targeted support to help the industry overcome structural bottlenecks and seize global opportunities. 

Social Impact and Welfare Initiatives

In addition to industry concerns, Gupta briefed Sitharaman on the social welfare and community development efforts undertaken by the Trident Group and its associated institutions. These initiatives focus on skill development and women’s empowerment, contributing to wider socio-economic progress beyond the factory floor. 

The textile industry remains a cornerstone of India’s manufacturing economy, employing millions and forming a crucial part of export earnings. However, it faces ongoing challenges such as raw material volatility, international competition, and the need for greater technological modernisation. Stakeholders have also highlighted opportunities in technical textiles and modern value chains as potential growth drivers for the future.