The Ministry of Textiles, under the leadership of Secretary Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, recently convened the fourth meeting of its ESG Task Force. This gathering brought together a diverse group of stakeholders with the aim of shaping a sustainable future for India's textile and apparel industry.

The session saw active participation from key figures, including senior ministry officials such as Additional Secretary Shri Rohit Kansal, Textile Commissioner Dr. M. Beena, and Joint Secretary (Fibre) Smt. Padmini Singla. Also present were Ms. Renu Lata, Economic Advisor from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, and Shri Ashok Kumar, Deputy Director General from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency. Representatives from other relevant ministries, industry associations, major brands, multilateral agencies, and various key players were in attendance, ensuring that the entire textile value chain was well-represented by leading associations and sector experts.

During the meeting, Smt. Rao highlighted the ongoing sustainability efforts in key textile hubs like Tiruppur, Surat, and Panipat. She specifically mentioned initiatives such as wastewater recycling, the adoption of renewable energy, and comprehensive textile waste management. She emphasized the critical need to expand these practices nationwide through collective action, asserting that sustainability is now a fundamental necessity for the future of India's textile sector.

Shri Kansal reiterated the importance of sustainability, highlighting its deep roots in Indian tradition and its increasing significance within the industry. He detailed various government and industry initiatives, such as cluster-level programs, skilling endeavors, and efforts to position sustainability as a competitive advantage for Indian textiles on a global scale. He also referenced the Prime Minister's vision for India to lead in "Fashion for Environment and Empowerment."

The Ministry presented its vision for the sector and invited stakeholder input to collaboratively develop a comprehensive roadmap. The meeting included a consultation on the draft Roadmap 2047 for a sustainable, circular, and resource-efficient textile industry. Key discussion points included raising awareness across the value chain, building capacity, fostering research and innovation, and disseminating knowledge. Stakeholders also discussed the need for unified sustainability standards, streamlined compliance, and a balanced approach between voluntary and regulatory measures to promote circularity.

The discussion further focused on aligning national policies with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) trends, promoting green finance, and encouraging responsible consumption patterns. The meeting wrapped up with all participants collectively committing to support the development of a revised policy framework. Industry representatives specifically appreciated the Ministry's inclusive and action-oriented approach.