Budget 2026: Government proposes integrated programme to boost textile sector
The Hindu
Government proposes an integrated program in Budget 2026 to enhance India's textile sector, supporting weavers and artisans through various initiatives.
The government on Sunday (February 1, 2026) announced an integrated programme to boost growth in the labour-intensive textile sector and also proposed setting up mega textile parks.
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In her budget speech, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said, "For the labour-intensive Textile Sector, I propose an Integrated Programme with 5 sub-parts". Under these five sub-parts, she announced a 'National Fibre Scheme' for self-reliance in natural fibres such as silk, wool and jute, man-made fibres, and new-age fibres.
The government proposed a 'Textile Expansion and Employment Scheme' to modernise traditional clusters with capital support for machinery, technology upgradation and common testing and certification centres.
A National Handloom and Handicraft programme has been proposed to integrate and strengthen existing schemes and ensure targeted support for weavers and artisans. That apart, the Minister said a 'Tex-Eco Initiative' will be launched to promote globally competitive and sustainable textiles and apparels.
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