Government Plans ₹25,000-Crore Textile Skilling Programme to Strengthen Workforce

Proposed Initiative Targets 20 Lakh Workers, with Focus on Industry-Linked Training, Technology and Employment

The Indian government is considering a ₹25,000-crore textile skilling programme aimed at addressing workforce shortages and strengthening the industry’s talent base over the next five years. The proposed initiative seeks to develop a larger pool of industry-ready workers and expand India’s competitiveness in global textile and apparel markets.

According to the report, the programme could mark a significant increase in government support for textile-sector training, with a focus on modern manufacturing requirements and emerging technologies.

Proposed Programme to Cover 20 Lakh Workers

The proposed initiative is expected to target around 20 lakh people over five years. It would build on existing skilling efforts while placing greater emphasis on industry-linked training, workforce readiness and employment opportunities.

The government is considering a coordinated approach involving the textile industry, training institutions and other stakeholders to improve the availability of skilled workers.

Textile Sector Remains a Major Employment Provider

The textile and apparel industry is among India’s largest employment-generating sectors, supporting millions of workers across manufacturing, processing and related activities.

The proposed programme is intended to address gaps in skilled labour availability as the industry expands and adopts new production technologies. A stronger training framework could help manufacturers meet workforce requirements while improving productivity and operational efficiency.

Focus on Technology and Industry Requirements

The proposed skilling effort is expected to respond to changing requirements in textile manufacturing, including automation, advanced machinery and digital production systems.

Industry-linked training could help workers develop skills relevant to modern production processes, while collaboration between employers and training providers may improve alignment between courses and workplace requirements.

Supporting Long-Term Industry Growth

The initiative is being considered as part of wider efforts to strengthen India’s textile manufacturing capabilities and competitiveness in international markets. The programme’s proposed scale reflects the importance of workforce development as the sector responds to changing technology, production requirements and global demand.

Further details on implementation, funding allocation and the final structure of the programme would be needed to establish how the proposed initiative will be rolled out.