The Indian textile industry occupies an important position in the Indian economy, contributing 14% of industrial production and employing over 35 million people. The industry encompasses traditional handloom and mill sectors as well as decentralized powerloom and knitting sectors. Cotton accounts for 70% of total textile production. While the industry has strengths like abundant raw materials and low labor costs, it faces weaknesses such as fragmentation and technology obsolescence. Opportunities for growth include new product development and faster design capabilities to better compete globally in the post-WTO regime.