Indian Textile Ministry wants to allocate natural gas to man-made fiber manufacturing

For the first time, the Indian Ministry of Textiles has proposed that natural gas be allocated to man-made fiber manufacturing and processing companies, on par with the amount of credit given to power companies. This initiative was presented as a draft under the National Fiber Policy cabinet for discussion by the Ministry of Oil and Gas. The proposal marks a significant shift in policy, aiming to support the textile industry's transition toward more sustainable and cost-effective energy sources.

According to officials from the Ministry of Textiles, if this proposal is approved, it could provide a major boost to technology-driven textile manufacturers and integrated petrochemical companies. The move is expected to enhance competitiveness and reduce dependency on traditional energy sources, especially in energy-intensive sectors like synthetic fiber production.

The Ministry has placed strong emphasis on the development of technical textiles, which are used in specialized applications requiring high performance. To further this goal, they have also established a dedicated task force focused on promoting traditional fibers such as cotton and jute, ensuring their continued relevance in the evolving textile landscape.

Natural gas containing C2/C3 compounds (carbon-based chemical variants) serves as a key raw material for the petrochemical industry. The Ministry of Oil and Gas is currently reviewing its natural gas distribution strategy and pricing mechanisms, which could have far-reaching implications for various sectors, including textiles.

Technical textiles are known for their advanced functional properties, offering superior strength, durability, and resistance compared to conventional synthetic or man-made fibers. These materials are widely used in critical applications such as fire-resistant fabrics in public spaces like exhibition centers and cinemas, firefighter gear, geotechnical insulation materials for infrastructure, disposable medical products, and protective clothing like jackets. Polyester, viscose, nylon, and polypropylene account for about 70% of the fibers used in technical textiles, while upgraded specialty fibers make up the remaining 30%. As demand for high-performance textiles grows, so does the need for reliable and efficient supply chains, making this policy update all the more important.