PHDCCI Launches Key Technical Textile Initiatives in Panipat

Panipat Chintan Shivir reveals major national programmes on recycling, sustainability, and technical textiles.

PHDCCI, in collaboration with NTTM, hosted a high-level Chintan Shivir in Panipat, unveiling landmark initiatives in technical textiles, recycling, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven growth for the region’s textile ecosystem.

PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI), in partnership with the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, organised a high-level Chintan Shivir on Technical Transformation of Panipat’s Textile Industry at Geeta Sarovar Portico, Panipat. The event convened senior government representatives, textile leaders, technology experts, researchers, and innovators to deliberate on the future of technical textiles, sustainability, recycling, and high-value growth opportunities for Panipat’s textile ecosystem.

During the inaugural session, Shri R. K. Vij welcomed delegates and highlighted Panipat’s long-standing identity as India’s leading textile recycling hub. He announced several national initiatives designed to accelerate innovation, sustainability, and capacity-building in the sector.

He introduced the Atal Centre of Textile Recycling and Sustainability, developed under the NTTM project and coordinated by Prof. Bipin Kumar, IIT Delhi, which will advance cutting-edge recycling technologies and circular economy practices. He also unveiled the National Flag Recycling initiative, curated by Maj. Gen. Ashim Kohli (Retd.), offering a structured, eco-friendly, and respectful method for disposing of the national flag. Technology transfer agreements with startups and industry partners were also formalised to push real-world implementation of new textile technologies.

Additionally, he announced the Textile-Tech-Innovator for Textile Entrepreneurs programme, supported by the Atal Incubation Centre, IIT Delhi, aimed at nurturing next-generation innovators. Shri Vij also emphasized the government’s strong support through PLI schemes, which continue to enhance manufacturing, sustainability, and competitiveness across the textile value chain.

Following the opening remarks, Mr. Sunil Kumar Puri, known as The Knitting Guru, delivered a presentation on “Technical Textiles: Opportunities & Enablers for the Panipat Sector.” He explained how modern flat-bed knitting technology has become one of the most versatile solutions for advanced technical textiles. These machines produce 2D/3D structures, complex shapes, seamless forms, and engineered designs, while integrating padding, guards, hoods, and even logos directly into knitted surfaces—optimizing material usage and reducing waste.

He highlighted global examples showcasing knitted turbine blades, advanced protective gear, and fully engineered structures. He also discussed next-generation composite materials using carbon, glass, and aramid fibres, which provide high strength, low weight, and superior performance for sectors like aerospace, automotive, medical, and sports.

A major part of his address focused on smart and responsive textiles—conductive fabrics with integrated sensors and communication systems for health monitoring, physical tracking, and wearable electronics. He showcased innovations such as knitted ECG monitors, battery-free sensors, cooling suits for firefighters, and advanced compression systems for orthopaedic and venous care. Mr. Puri emphasised that Panipat has enormous potential to adopt these technologies and enter high-value technical textile markets.

Prof. Bipin Kumar reiterated the importance of the newly launched Atal Centre for driving circularity and sustainable manufacturing. The event also formally launched the National Flag Recycling initiative. Speaking at the launch, Maj. Gen. Ashim Kohli (Retd.) stressed the national responsibility of respectfully handling the Indian Tricolour. He noted that millions of flags are used annually, yet lack a dignified disposal system. The initiative aims to create India’s first scientific mechanism for collection, respectful handling, and eco-friendly recycling of the national flag in alignment with the Flag Code of India.

A felicitation ceremony also recognised exceptional contributors to the textile sector.

In the industry expectations segment, Mr. Vinod Dhamija, Chairman, Panipat Chapter (HCCI) and Director, Sahil International, spoke about Panipat’s global leadership in home textiles and recycled yarns. He underlined the need for technology upgrades, sustainability, and skill enhancement to maintain competitiveness. He appreciated initiatives such as the Atal Centre and technology transfers, stating they will enable Panipat’s transition into high-value technical textiles.

Mr. Lalit Kumar Goel, MD, Riviera Home Furnishings & Chairman, HEPC, highlighted Panipat’s strong global presence in value-added home textiles and stressed the importance of quality, compliance, and innovation. He thanked PHDCCI and NTTM for bringing together key stakeholders to support Panipat’s growth across traditional and technical textile domains.

Mr. Pavinder Kadyan, MD, Aadi Sustainability Solutions & Chairman, GATS, pointed out that while industry continues to offer valuable inputs, several challenges remain unresolved. He urged faster policy action and stronger collaboration, emphasising that exports must remain Panipat’s central focus.

As Guest of Honour, Mr. Rajinder Kumar, Economic Advisor, Ministry of Textiles, praised PHDCCI and NTTM for facilitating this high-impact dialogue. He highlighted the expanding role of technical textiles across healthcare, defence, mobility, and infrastructure. He noted Panipat’s strong recycling base and encouraged the region to evolve into a technology-led innovation hub, leveraging the newly launched centres and programmes.

In a video message, Shri Pabitra Margherita, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles, expressed his appreciation for the Chintan Shivir and the collaborative spirit of the platform. He acknowledged Panipat’s importance as a textile and recycling powerhouse and urged the region to continue advancing in sustainable and technical textile segments.

Mr. Ashok Malhotra, Mission Director, NTTM, delivered the keynote address presenting achievements of the mission since FY21. He shared that NTTM has sanctioned 168 R&D projects with ₹550 crore in grants, including product development, sustainability, and import substitution projects. He highlighted 24 supported start-ups, 24 skill development courses, more than 1000 trainees, 31 patents filed, and 10 projects nearing completion. He encouraged traditional textile units to leverage these opportunities and diversify into technical textile categories for higher value addition.

The programme then transitioned into two technical sessions:

• Session 1: “Recycling, Circularity & Startups”, moderated by Prof. Bipin Kumar, featuring leaders from NITRA, HPT Textiles, Satyam Polyknits, AIC Sonipat, and Teijin India.
• Session 2: “Quality, Compliance, Skills & Cluster Collaboration”, moderated by Mr. Nishant Anand, with experts from BIS, PIET, TSSC, and IIT Mandi.

Both sessions were facilitated by Mr. Rakesh Kumar Sangrai, Director, PHDCCI, ensuring dynamic and insightful exchanges among 200+ participants from industry, MSMEs, R&D, academia, testing bodies, and certification agencies.

The Chintan Shivir concluded on an inspiring note, demonstrating a unified commitment toward sustainability, innovation, quality excellence, and global competitiveness for Panipat’s textile cluster. The event marked a crucial step in building a high-value, future-ready technical textile ecosystem. PHDCCI extended gratitude to all dignitaries, partners, speakers, and attendees for their meaningful participation.