National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM)
Why in news?
- Under the Ministry of Textiles’ NTTM, NITRA has developed three indigenous thermal testing instruments — Convective, Radiant, and Contact Heat Testers.
- These are cost-effective alternatives to imported equipment assess heat resistance of protective textiles used in firefighting, industrial safety, and defense applications.
Overview and Objectives
- NTTM is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, launched in 2020 to promote and accelerate the technical textiles sector, positioning India as a global leader in this field.
- The mission aims to strengthen India’s position in technical textiles through focused research, innovation, market development, export promotion, and skill development.β
What Are Technical Textiles?
- Technical textiles are specialty fabrics designed primarily for functional use, not aesthetics.β
- They are used across diverse sectors such as agriculture, medical, automotive, construction, sports, industrial production, safety, and environmental protection.β
Components and Structure
- Research, Innovation, and Development: Focused on fundamental and application-based R&D in specialty fibers, machinery, and functional textiles.
- Promotion and Market Development: Activities to increase penetration and awareness of technical textiles within India.β
- Export Promotion: Steps to boost exports and achieve global competitiveness; technical textile exports are targeted to rise annually during the mission’s tenure.β
- Education, Training, and Skill Development: Programs to build a skilled workforce and facilitate adoption by industries.
Importance and Benefits
- Technical textiles support advanced defense solutions (e.g., bulletproof jackets, protective materials), enhance productivity in agriculture and healthcare, and contribute to environmental protection.β
- The mission is vital for disaster management, infrastructure, and modernizing industries through “Make in India” initiatives.
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