In 2007, consumers world-wide, spent over 1 trillion US $ on furnishing and clothing. Yet the industry remains one of the world's most exploitative, against people and the environment. Time and again, there have been concerns over the issues of health of the consumers and the fabrics they use.



Indian Textile Sector is one of the most important sectors of the Indian economy.

It is now recognized as a priority sector for development during the 11th Five Year Plan and it is the second largest employment generator after agriculture. It provides direct employment to about 35 million workers, contributing 4% to GDP, 16% of industrial production, and export earnings of 17%. This sector has set a target of 85 billion US $ by 2010 and 150 billion US $ in the year 2015.

People's perceptions are changing, and we believe that sustainable developments and industries are almost inevitable for further growth in India.

Ethical fabrics and clothing is a growing markets

A Co-operative Bank, UK Report, states that, Fairtrade and organic certified clothing in the UK alone have shown strong growth as an increasing number of mainstream clothing retailers begin selling certified clothing lines. The Fairtrade Foundation states that sales of Fairtrade cotton products reached ?45 million in 2007, an increase of over 800 per cent in just one year. The Soil Association UK, forecasts that at current growth rates, the UK market for organic cotton products could be worth ?107 million by 2008, up from ?45 million in 2006. The markets in Europe are growing, probably, even faster than UK. These facts give indicator of the potential growth in the world markets for organic and fair-trade fabrics.

Today, India has a significant role to play

In 2007, owner of the venture capital firm KPC&B, John Doerr said at Technology, Entertainment and Design conference, at California that, ?Fighting climate change is the largest economic opportunity of this century.? His company has invested 200 million US $, in the green technology start-ups. But this investment Guru is worried that three of the world's largest polluters ? the US, China and India ? still do not see climate change as an economic opportunity.

More than 60% business leaders in India believe that India should lead the way in green initiatives but a lot more determination and action is needed. By promoting sustainable textile industry in a committed way, India can emerge as a world leader in reducing Carbon Footprint and increase its respectability and its market share globally ? possibly beating China in our revenue from this exclusive fabric, furnishing and clothing market. We can do this without costing our natural resources and harming the environment.

The inherent transparency of this market helps in tracing the roots of each product from farmers, to spinners, weavers, dyers, printers and to manufacturer as well as traders. Our industry can take a lead to become a clean and fair trade industry which will help millions of workers in the textile industry living a life of dignity and well being.