Bharat Tex 2024, a global textile expo scheduled from February 26-29, anticipates the participation of over 3,500 exhibitors and more than 3,000 overseas buyers. Secretary Rachna Shah of the Ministry of Textiles highlighted the expo's significance in bringing together stakeholders across the textile value chain, providing a unique platform for India to showcase itself as a global sourcing and investment destination. The event is expected to witness 40,000 business visitors, along with policymakers, government representatives, and industry professionals.

In a press conference, Shah revealed key initiatives in the textile sector. A "Centre of Sustainable Fashion Technology" is proposed to be established, focusing on capacity building and research in sustainability. The INDIAsize initiative's findings and recommendations, aimed at addressing sizing in the Indian market, are finalized and set for a formal launch.

Furthermore, the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) is introducing a five-year integrated Masters Programme titled "Crafting Luxury; Restoration and Curation of Textiles and Fashion; Event and Experience Design" from the 2024-25 academic session.

The Ministry is actively working on the formation of a special purpose vehicle for textile parks, aiming to create substantial job opportunities and investments. Regarding the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) for Man Made Fibre (MMF) and Apparel, 64 companies are participating, with 30 making significant progress and expecting to commence production this year.

The PLI scheme, spanning five years, is poised to attract fresh investments exceeding Rs 19,000 crore, achieve a cumulative turnover surpassing Rs 3 lakh crore, and generate over 7.5 lakh additional jobs in the sector. The initiative aligns with empowering women and increasing their participation in the formal economy, given the predominantly female workforce in the textiles industry.