The textile industry is the only industry in India which is selfreliant and complete in value chain i.e. from the raw material to the highest value-added products. 1. The cotton textiles industry is a very old industry which has existed since the ancient times. In the early years, it was concentrated in the cotton growing belt of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Factors such as availability of raw cotton, market, transport facilities (ports), labour and favorable climate contribute towards its prominent presence locally. 2. This industry has close links with agriculture and provides a living to many people involved in the entire chain (eg - farmers, cotton ball pluckers workers engaged in various activities - ginning, dyeing etc.). It not only generates employment opportunities but also supports other industries such as chemicals and dyes, mill stores etc. 3. India is also the second largest producer of raw jute and jute based goods and stands at the second place as an exporter after Bangladesh. Although, there are a no. of challenges faced by this industry, the jute textiles have been successful in providing employment to many people and the increasing concern over environmental friendly products globally has also widened the opportunity for this industry.