Surat’s textile industry is pressing for a new textile policy in Gujarat following Bihar’s recent announcement of its policy. Despite being a prominent textile hub, Surat lacks a state-specific policy, unlike leading states such as Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, which have established frameworks to support their textile sectors.
The call for a policy in Gujarat comes after a year without a textile policy, following the end of the Centre’s textile policy in 2022 and the garment policy in 2019. Ashok Jirawala, President of the Gujarat Weaver Welfare Association (FOGWWA), highlighted the urgency of the matter, stating, “Surat has the potential for further growth, but investors are waiting for a clear policy.”
Previous meetings with the Gujarat Chief Minister promised a forthcoming policy, but no official announcement has been made. The lack of a policy is impacting Surat’s competitiveness, as neighbouring states offer various incentives, including capital, power, and solar subsidies, making it challenging for Surat-based units to compete.
Ashish Gujarati, President of the Pandesara Weavers Cooperative Society, emphasized the competitive disadvantage, noting, “Our neighbouring states are offering significant subsidies, leading many units to relocate. Surat’s textile industry needs a policy to remain competitive.”
The industry aims to capitalise on the current crisis in Bangladesh, further stressing the need for a well-defined policy to attract and retain investment.
Surat’s textile industry is pressing for a new textile policy in Gujarat following Bihar’s recent announcement of its policy. Despite being a prominent textile hub, Surat lacks a state-specific policy, unlike leading states such as Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, which have established frameworks to support their textile sectors.
