From the time of my association with the industry through Apparel Online and StitchWorld, I have restrained myself from commenting on Government policies whether good or bad. But of late a few comments by our Hon’ble Union Textile Minister Murasoli Maran are really asking to be rebutted. At an open forum recently, he lashed out at India’s textile industrialists for coming to the Government with a “begging bowl” instead of taking steps to innovate. That is taking things too far… especially coming from a minister whose understanding of the industry is about 250 days old.
I have always advocated that the industry needs to look inward to improve its competitiveness… not to look at the Government for crutches but to group together for sustainable growth.
History is witness to the fact that many Textile Ministers have come and gone and not one of them was able to make a significant impact on the industry. This was mainly so because the ministers had little or no real knowledge of the sector and very little political clout to take some hard decisions. However, Maran was different… He is young, educated, liberal in thought and part of the ‘gennow’ group of politician who claim to be providing fresh approach to governance. Also he has a strong political linkage and considerable clout in the Government. No wonder the expectations were higher…
As an elected representative of the people, it is his duty to listen to various demands… agreeing or disagreeing with them is of course his prerogative based on merit. But using derogatory words is certainly uncalled for. The recent budget is ample proof of the apathy towards this industry.
I have always advocated that the industry needs to look inward to improve its competitiveness… not to look at the Government for crutches but to group together for sustainable growth.
History is witness to the fact that many Textile Ministers have come and gone and not one of them was able to make a significant impact on the industry. This was mainly so because the ministers had little or no real knowledge of the sector and very little political clout to take some hard decisions. However, Maran was different… He is young, educated, liberal in thought and part of the ‘gennow’ group of politician who claim to be providing fresh approach to governance. Also he has a strong political linkage and considerable clout in the Government. No wonder the expectations were higher…
As an elected representative of the people, it is his duty to listen to various demands… agreeing or disagreeing with them is of course his prerogative based on merit. But using derogatory words is certainly uncalled for. The recent budget is ample proof of the apathy towards this industry.
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