Introduction: The Push for Technical Textiles

The Government of India is aggressively pushing for self-reliance and innovation in the specialized sector of technical textiles through the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM). Launched in 2020 with a significant financial outlay of Rs. 1,480 crore, the mission aims to transform India into a global hub for these high-performance materials. The core objectives revolve around promoting cutting-edge research in specialty fibers, developing indigenous machinery, boosting exports, and creating a highly skilled workforce to support this knowledge-intensive industry.

Key Facts: Mission Achievements (National Level)
Launch Year

2020

Total Outlay

Rs. 1,480 Crore

R&D Projects Approved

168 Total

(incl. 3 indigenous machinery projects)
Start-ups Supported

24

Educational Institutes involved

45

Highlights: Skilling and Education Ecosystem
  • To address the skill gap in this niche sector, the mission has successfully developed 24 specific skilling courses across various segments of technical textiles.
  • More than 1,000 individuals have already received skill training under these initiatives.
  • Furthermore, to provide practical, hands-on experience to undergraduate students, 21 agencies have been empanelled to conduct internship programs.
  • 45 educational institutions have been approved to implement academic courses specifically designed for technical textiles.
Case Study: NTTM Impact in Karnataka

As a Pan-India mission, NTTM has significant footprints in states like Karnataka, supporting high-tech research and startups. Key examples include:

  • High-Value R&D: NAL (CSIR) Bengaluru has been approved for a major project worth Rs. 77.90 Crore for the development of intermediate modulus grade carbon fibre.
  • Infrastructure Innovation: IISc-Bengaluru is working on a Geotech project for designing Reinforced Earth retaining walls for High-Speed Rail (HSR) applications.
  • Startup Innovation: Bengaluru-based startups like Momentux Systems and Guerin Technologies receive funding for developing advanced technologies like Radome Integrated IFF Antennas and space-deployable communication antennas using novel composite materials.
  • Educational Support: NIT Karnataka has been approved for funding of Rs. 6.193 Crore under education guidelines.
Official Statement

The information regarding the progress of the National Technical Textiles Mission was provided in a written reply to the Lok Sabha by the Minister of State for Textiles, Shri Pabitra Margherita. The statement emphasized that NTTM is a Pan-India mission aimed at promoting the entire ecosystem of technical textiles across the country.

Source Information

For detailed information, please refer to the official press release from the Ministry of Textiles via PIB:

PIB Press Release ID: 2222482
NTTM Progress 2026: ₹1,480 Cr Mission Boosts R&D, Startups, and Skilling in Technical Textiles - Image 1

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) - NTTM

Q1. In which year was the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) launched?
The mission was launched in the year 2020.
Q2. What is the total financial outlay for NTTM?
The total fund outlay for the mission is Rs. 1,480 crore.
Q3. What are the main aims of NTTM?
It aims to promote research in specialty fibers, develop indigenous machinery, increase user awareness, enhance exports, and create a skilled workforce in technical textiles.
Q4. How many R&D projects have been approved under NTTM so far?
A total of 168 research projects have been approved across various segments.
Q5. How many Start-ups have received approval under this mission?
The mission has approved support for 24 Start-ups in the technical textiles sector.
Q6. What is being done for skill development under NTTM?
24 skilling courses have been developed, and over 1,000 persons have been trained. Additionally, 21 agencies are empanelled for internships.
Q7. Can you give an example of a high-value project funded in Karnataka under NTTM?
Yes, NAL (CSIR) in Bengaluru received approval for a ₹77.90 crore project to develop intermediate modulus grade carbon fibre.
Q8. Under which ministry does NTTM operate?
It operates under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.