Narendra Modi Talks About Textile Waste in Mann Ki Baat

In his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address today, Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, raised an important issue about the challenge of textile waste. 

Prime Minister first explained that a growing trend of getting rid of old clothes as soon as possible and buying new ones is increasing worldwide. Once the individual stops wearing this old clothing, it becomes textile waste.

He further raised his concern, alluding to global research on this subject, where it is estimated that less than one percent of textile waste is recycled into new clothes. India is the third country in the world in terms of textile waste generated. 

On a positive note, the Prime Minister commended the efforts being taken in our country to deal with this challenge. Many Indian start-ups have started working on textile recovery facilities. 

Change Started has recently written on Indian startups promoting upcycled fashion in India and preventing textile waste. Read here. 

He alluded that many teams and organizations are working for the empowerment of ragpickers and encouraging sustainable fashion, by recycling old clothes and footwear and distributing them to the needy. 

Many organizations are engaged in popularizing the ‘circular fashion brands’ these days. Items such as decorative pieces, handbags, stationery and toys are also made from textile waste.

New rental platforms are also emerging, where designer clothes are available for rent. Some organizations collect old clothes, make them reusable and distribute them to the poor.

He also referred to some cities carving a new identity in dealing with textile waste in India.

Panipat in Haryana is emerging as a global hub for textile recycling. Bengaluru is also creating a distinct identity for itself with innovative tech solutions. Similarly, Tirupur in Tamil Nadu is engaged in textile waste management through wastewater treatment and renewable energy.

Mann Ki Baat is a monthly radio program hosted by the Prime Minister of India on All India Radio (AIR) and social media channels. Through this program, which started in October 2014, the Prime Minister shares his thoughts on various issues, celebrates achievements, and highlights topics of national importance. 

This month’s broadcast was the 120th episode of Mann Ki Baat, where he mentioned efforts to conserve Indian culture in different parts of the world. He also urged students to participate in projects and initiatives during their summer vacation, motivated people with water conservation and shared the journey of some flowers. 

Interestingly, today is also International Day of Zero Waste, which highlights the importance of waste management, the need to promote sustainable consumption and address the pollution crisis. 

It is estimated that 92 million tonnes of textile waste are generated worldwide each year, driven by the rapid rise in production and consumption, causing severe environmental, economic, and social issues.