Govt to Buttress Traditional Industry Sectors: Minister

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM:
Minister for Industries, Coir and Law P Rajeeve today said the government will take necessary steps to ramp up the traditional industry sectors in the state by addressing their challenges.

Rajeeve was speaking after inaugurating the ‘Textile Conclave,’ organised by the Kerala State Industrial Development Corporation (KSIDC) in association with the Department of Industries & Commerce (DI&C) here. A P M Mohammed Hanish, Principal Secretary, Industries & Commerce, presided over the function.

The event is part of a series of sector-specific conclaves planned ahead of the Invest Kerala Global Summit (IKGS 2025), scheduled in Kochi on February 21 and 22.

Addressing manufacturers and entrepreneurs from the handloom and textile sectors, the Minister informed them that a comprehensive plan to improve their activities and marketing strategies will soon be envisaged.

“Textile and handloom sectors have great potential to attract investments in the upcoming IKGS. These sectors need to come up with innovative and quality products to explore new markets. Regular inspections will be conducted in shops to identify fake products,” he noted.

Calling for a constructive change in these sectors, Shri Rajeeve said better marketing possibilities and strategies have to be leveraged. “The Cabinet has approved the new Export Policy. The textile sector has contributed significantly to exports, and we need to look for what can be done to achieve success,” he said.

Rajeeve said inclusiveness is the key to Kerala’s industrial policy that extends support to all sectors, besides fostering entrepreneurship among women and transgender people.

The Minister highlighted the state’s rise to the top in the country for ‘Ease of Doing Business.’ In the past year, approximately 31 private industrial parks have been established in the state, with a goal to increase that number to 50 by February. Additionally, 10 Campus Industrial Parks (CIPs) have already been set up in leading educational institutions.

The Minister also interacted with entrepreneurs and manufacturers from the textile and handloom sectors on the occasion.

Noting that the handloom sector faces issues like quality, adulteration and marketing, APM Mohammed Hanish said societies and cooperatives must look for diversification for sustainable growth. He also reminded them of the importance of embracing professionalism in their activities.

In his welcome address, S Harikishore, Managing Director, KSIDC, said IKGS 2025 will set a platform for manufacturers and entrepreneurs of handloom and textile sectors to showcase their potential and build collaborations. Harikishore added that around 40 sector meetings were held as a build-up to IKGS 2025.

Hari Krishnan R, Executive Director, KSIDC; Anil Kumar K S, Director, Handloom & Textiles, and Vishnuraj P, Officer on Special Duty, Invest Kerala Global Summit, were also present.