SP MLA Rais Shaikh Calls for State Intervention to Rescue Maharashtra's Textile Sector
Samajwadi Party MLA Rais Shaikh has issued a pressing demand for the Maharashtra state government to announce a comprehensive relief package for the textile industry, specifically targeting the major hubs of Bhiwandi, Malegaon, and Ichalkaranji. These regions have been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict in West Asia, leading to significant economic distress.
Industry Crippled by Export Standstill and Rising Costs
In a detailed letter addressed to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Textiles Minister Sanjay Savkare, Shaikh highlighted the dire situation facing the textile sector. "Due to the Gulf war, the exports of India's textile products have come to a complete standstill," Shaikh stated. He further explained that escalating prices of essential raw materials, such as cotton and yarn, have compelled many units to reduce operations, with some shutting down for three days a week to manage costs.
The disruption extends beyond exports; the supply chain for raw materials has also been severely affected by the conflict. This dual challenge has forced numerous textile units to halt production for two days weekly, exacerbating financial strain across the industry.
Substantial Financial Losses and Employment Risks
A survey conducted by the State Textile Corporation revealed alarming figures: the industry suffered losses approximating Rs 4,000 crore in just one month, March 2026. Shaikh emphasized the broader implications, noting that Maharashtra is home to about 948,000 power looms and 4,000 handlooms, which constitute 39% of the nation's total power loom capacity.
"If the government fails to support this sector, we could witness a reverse migration of workers, similar to the patterns observed during the COVID-19 pandemic," Shaikh warned. The textile industry is the second-largest employer in India after agriculture, making its stability crucial for economic and social welfare.
Existing Challenges Compounded by Conflict
Shaikh pointed out that the industry was already grappling with high electricity costs prior to the West Asia crisis. With exports stalled and operational costs rising, the financially strained sector now faces an imminent risk of collapse. This could lead to massive job losses among both skilled and unskilled workers, further destabilizing local economies.
Key textile hubs in Maharashtra, including Bhiwandi, Malegaon, and Ichalkaranji, are at the epicenter of this crisis. The MLA's appeal underscores the urgent need for government intervention to prevent long-term damage to one of the state's vital economic pillars.
