Karnataka is poised to become a major denim manufacturing hub with the announcement of a new Jeans Park near Ballari, strategically positioned to attract international investment amidst political instability in Bangladesh. The Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) will develop the 154-acre park at Sajanjeerayanakote, with land acquisition already complete, according to Large and Medium Industries Minister M.B. Patil.
The move comes as global apparel brands seek to diversify their supply chains away from traditional manufacturing centres. Bangladesh, a key exporter of giants like Zara and H&M, has faced significant challenges due to recent political turmoil, including the resignation of Sheikh Hasina. This instability has created an opportunity for India to step in and capture a larger share of the global denim market.
“The unstable situation in Bangladesh has prompted investors and exporters to explore alternatives, and Ballari has emerged as a favourable destination,” stated Minister Patil. The region already boasts approximately 500 jeans production units, providing a strong foundation for further growth. The new Jeans Park aims to attract globally renowned companies, further solidifying Ballari’s position as a denim powerhouse.
This initiative aligns with a broader trend of textile companies in India expanding their operations. Gokaldas Exports, a prominent apparel manufacturer, has announced expansion plans in Bhopal and South India, with potential capacity increases in Ranchi. “Our strong order book indicates robust near-term prospects, with a favourable long-term outlook driven by the ongoing shift in global sourcing away from China and Bangladesh,” explained Sivaramakrishnan Ganapathi, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Gokaldas Exports.
The Indian government is actively supporting the textile industry’s growth. Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh recently reiterated the ministry’s ambitious target of growing the sector to $300 billion by 2030, generating 60 million jobs across the value chain. This commitment is reflected in recent export figures, with October textile exports showing an 11.56% year-on-year increase to $1,833.95 million, and apparel exports surging by an impressive 35% during the same period. The development of the Jeans Park in Karnataka is a key component of this national strategy, aiming to establish India as a leading force in the global textile landscape.
