India's textiles and apparel exports, including handicrafts, experienced a robust growth of 7% in the April-October period of FY 2024-25, reaching USD 21.35 billion. This increase marks a significant rise from the USD 20 billion recorded during the same period in the previous fiscal year, FY 2023-24, according to government data released on Thursday.

The surge in exports was largely driven by the strong performance of Ready Made Garments, which emerged as a key contributor to the sector’s overall growth. Additionally, exports of Cotton Textiles and Man-Made Textiles showed notable increases, further bolstering the sector's performance.

While exports saw impressive growth, the import side of the equation told a different story. Imports in the textiles and apparel sector saw a slight decline of 1% during the same period, indicating a shift towards strengthening domestic production and reducing reliance on foreign imports.

The government's focus on boosting the textiles industry through various incentives and supportive policies appears to be yielding positive results. This growth is not only a testament to the resilience of the sector but also highlights its critical role in driving the country's economic recovery post-pandemic.

As global demand continues to recover, India’s textiles and apparel sector remains poised for sustained growth, with the potential to further solidify its position in the global market. Industry experts believe that continued investment in technology, quality enhancement, and diversification of export markets will be key to maintaining this upward trajectory.

The positive trends in exports underscore the sector's vital contribution to India's economy, providing a boost to employment and supporting the livelihoods of millions engaged in the textiles industry.