Smriti Irani takes charge as Union textiles minister

Speaking to mediapersons after taking charge, Irani thanked prime minister Narendra Modi for placing her in charge of a sector that employs the largest number of people, next only to agriculture. She said that the sector has a lot of unrealised potential in terms of skilling and employment, and that it can play a very important role in scaling up the 'Make In India' vision of the prime minister.

She noted that the textiles sector provides employment to a large number of women, and that she will continue the efforts being taken under the leadership of the prime minister to engage with the industry and help increase the exports of the sector.

Citing that the weavers are the foundation of the sector, Irani assured that the government would strive to help them to the maximum possible extent.

Emphasising on the huge opportunity for skilling, the minister said that besides improving the skills of the people already engaged in the sector, she would also take steps to bring more youngsters into the field.

Ajay Tamta also took charge as minister of state for textiles earlier today. (RKS)

Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India