Giriraj Singh Reviews Textile, Footwear and Handicrafts Sectors During Agra Visit
Union Minister assesses sustainability, innovation, and technical textile integration across key industries
Union Minister for Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh visited Agra to assess developments in carpets, handicrafts, footwear, and technical textiles. The visit focused on sectoral progress, sustainability practices, and opportunities to strengthen global competitiveness.
Union Minister for Textiles Shri Giriraj Singh conducted an official visit to Agra, Uttar Pradesh, to review the status and potential of key sectors including carpets, handicrafts, footwear, and technical textiles. The visit examined ongoing developments related to sustainability, innovation, and export competitiveness.
During the visit, the Minister toured a carpet manufacturing facility and examined production processes adopted by the industry. These included the use of vegetable dyes, organic wool, and environmentally aligned manufacturing methods in line with international quality and sustainability requirements.
The Minister also held interactions with stakeholders from the carpet industry, including exporters and designers. Discussions covered global design trends, the use of sustainable and alternative fibres such as banana fibre, and efforts to strengthen the international positioning of the “India Handmade” brand. The role of indigenous trend forecasting tools such as Vision NXT in improving design capabilities and export competitiveness was also highlighted.
Shri Giriraj Singh later visited a footwear manufacturing unit, where he reviewed developments in the sector. The integration of technical textiles in footwear manufacturing was noted for its contribution to improving product quality and export potential. The role of young professionals in driving innovation within the industry was also acknowledged.
A stakeholder meeting was held with representatives from the footwear sector, technical textiles segment, and related industries. Key areas of discussion included the use of technical textiles in footwear production, adoption of AI and advanced technologies in manufacturing and design, strengthening innovation and design capabilities, promoting export-oriented high-value footwear, and increasing awareness of technical textiles.
The Minister stated that technical textiles are expected to play a significant role in the development of the footwear industry as a design-driven and globally competitive segment. He also reiterated the Government’s support for both traditional sectors such as carpets and handicrafts, as well as emerging areas like technical textiles.
The visit also included a handicrafts exhibition that showcased the work of local artisans.
The review highlighted the role of sustainability, technological adoption, innovation, and stakeholder collaboration in advancing India’s textile and allied industries and strengthening their global presence.