An incubation center in Tirupur is promoting production of banana-silk clothing. India happens to be the largest banana producer in the world. Banana fiber was primarily used for making ropes, mats, and some other composite materials. With increasing environmental awareness, and the growing importance of eco-friendly fabrics, the banana fiber is finding application in other fields such as garments and home furnishings. Banana cultivation in a 1000 acre plantation is capable of generating revenue of Rs 16 crores if the fiber is extracted on a large scale and utilized for clothing. Rugs made from banana silk yarn fibers are popular the world over. Banana fiber is also used to make cushion covers, neckties, bags, table cloths, curtains etc. In Japan, it has long been used for making traditional dresses like the kimono. It’s lightweight and comfortable to wear, and is preferred by people in Japan as summer wear.

In fact, Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) is promoting the use of banana fiber for making handmade paper bags, statues, pen stands and garments. Once the fabrics match the three categories of fineness, softness and durability, fine, soft and durable yarn will be extracted from banana leaves and stitched into clothes.