Ministry of Textiles convenes the first Coordination Committee Meeting of Textile Research Associations (TRAs).

The Ministry of Textiles today convened the 1^st Coordination Committee Meeting of Textile Research Associations (TRAs) at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi under the gracious presence of Union Minister of Textiles Shri. Giriraj Singh and under the chairpersonship of Secretary (Textiles) Smt. Neelam Shami Rao, marking a significant step towards strengthening coordination, effectiveness, and outcome orientation of textile research and development activities in the country. The meeting was attended by senior officers of the Ministry, senior representatives of Textile Research Associations, EPCs, IIT Delhi, amongst others. It was a full day rigorously brainstorming meeting.

The Committee deliberated on the strategic role of Textile Research Associations (TRAs) in advancing fibre science, technical textiles, sustainability and innovation-led growth. Emphasis was placed on a “Research for Industry” approach, with focused discussions on strengthening Centres of Excellence (CoEs), particularly in the areas of sustainability and recycling. Key areas included upgradation of laboratory infrastructure to global standards, promotion of industry-driven and application-oriented research, development of sustainable and circular textile solutions, and formulation of a coordinated national textile research framework.

The Ministry also highlighted the growing importance of smart textiles and emphasized enhanced research through convergence with other Government R&D initiatives, including schemes under CSIR, and collaboration with academic institutions for effective knowledge dissemination. Emerging applications such as predictive modelling, eco-efficient material blends, electronic fibres, and advanced e-textile systems for healthcare, defence, and intelligent environments were discussed.

Flagship Government initiatives such as the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM), PM MITRA Parks, and various export promotion and support schemes were highlighted as key enablers for driving innovation, improving competitiveness, and positioning India as a global leader in the textile sector.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to strengthen coordination among TRAs and to leverage research, innovation, and collaboration to support the long-term growth and global positioning of the Indian textile industry.