Epilogue for the Argument

The shift in the consuming power of rich nations and the enhancement of savings rates will be negative factors for the conventional Indian textile industry. The lack of availability of raw materials and skilled labor force will make the Indian textile industry regroup and look for opportunities beyond the conventional fiber to fashion supply chain. Here comes the technical textiles sector. As of today, commodity textile sector does not have deeper understanding on the marketing aspects of technical textiles products. Technological awareness has been infused over the past few years. A concerted effort is needed to build confidence among entrepreneurs to start thinking seriously on how to grow this industrial base in India. As Nandan Nilekani puts it, India has a demographic dividend, i.e., educated youth, which is ideal for the technical textiles sector as these people are the customers and supporters of this industry in India.

The information expressed are personal views of the author. Here 'I' refers to him.

The article was originally published in Textile Review, June 2009

About the Author

The author is associated with Nonwovens & Advanced Materials Laboratory, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, USA.