Introduction
In India, Textiles is a part of our ancient heritage and traditions. It is also an integral part of our social and cultural milieu. The roots of textiles industry in general and colouration industry in particular are buried deep in history, going back several centuries. Time to time, the industry has added its strength by incorporating modernisation, skillful human resources meeting the changing market challenges, machines and product ranges. Presently, with its intrinsic strength and with the aid of several promoting factors, the Indian Textile industry has been able to make its mark on the global scenario, penetrating the market both in terms of range of products and countries.
The textile industry comprises a diverse, fragmented group of establishments that receive and prepare fibres, transform into yarn, convert the yarn into fabric and then dye at various stages of garment manufacturing. The processing of such a huge volume of fabric and clothing is carried out in different locations belonging to the hand processing units, composite mills and independent process houses of various sizes. The colouration of textiles is an important aspect of the production process and adds value to it, be it by dyeing or printing. So, the contribution of dyestuff industry in wet processing operations is enormous.
The authors are associated with Atul Ltd. (Colors Division), Atul, Valsad, Gujarat, India
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