Question

Analyse the growth and challenge of the cotton textile industries in India.

Answer 1

i. Growth:

• Expansion of Cotton Cultivation: After independence, there was significant growth in cotton farming, ensuring a steady supply of raw material.
• Import of Modern Machinery: Easier import policies helped modernise spinning and weaving processes.
• Dispersal of Industries: Textile units spread from traditional centres like Mumbai to other parts of the country, promoting regional development.
• Hydroelectric Power: Development of hydroelectricity supported textile mills in energy supply, especially in remote areas.
• Cost-effective Shifts: The industry began relocating to regions with lower labour costs, improving profitability.
• Multiple Production Sectors: India has organised mills, powerlooms, and handloom sectors producing cotton textiles, increasing output diversity.

ii. Challenges:

• Sick Mills: Many old mills operate with outdated and inefficient machinery, affecting productivity.
• Labour Issues: Frequent strikes and unrest disrupt production.
• High Land Costs: Rising urban land prices make expansion and setup of new units difficult.
• International Competition: Countries like Bangladesh, China, etc., offer cheaper textiles, posing serious competition.
• Domestic Competition: Other textiles like synthetics and polyester have reduced the demand for cotton-based fabrics.