Speaking at Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) in Pusa, Samastipur, Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh advocated for the blending of milkweed fibers with traditional materials like polyester, wool, viscose, and cotton, emphasizing the potential to create high-quality textiles.
This innovative approach could address the nation's rising demand for alternative fibers, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a self-reliant India, Singh emphasized.
On being combined with other factors, milkweed significantly improves fabric warmth, breathability, and softness, making it an ideal choice for premium, comfortable clothing, he added. He further suggested, with proper development, milkweed fibers could even surpass the renowned Kashmiri ‘pashmina’ in quality and versatility.
Currently, the Bihar Government is conducting an extensive research on milkweed production and its applications in the textile industry. Northern India Textile Research Association (NITRA) park is also establishing processing and testing facilities to support the development of this promising fiber.
To boost the agro-textile sector, the National Technical Textile Mission and RPCAU plan to sign an MoU to help increase the farmers' incomes and accelerate the growth of agro-textiles.
PS Pandey, Vice Chancellor, RPCAU added, a dedicated agricultural research center will soon be established at the university, further reinforcing the integration of technical textiles in agriculture and supporting India's drive towards self-sufficiency in fiber production.
