Page 29 - NIS English 16-28 Feb, 2026

COVER STORY BUDGET
Samarth 2.0
The upgraded skilling programme will modernise the textile skill
ecosystem through deeper collaboration.
Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Initiative
To strengthen khadi, handloom and handicrafts, the Mahatma
Gandhi Gram Swaraj Initiative will be launched. The initiative will
focus on global market linkage, branding, streamlined training,
skilling, quality improvement and process modernisation.
Rare Earth
The Rare Earth Permanent Magnet Scheme was launched in
November 2025. Now, the budget has announced the establishment
of a rare minerals corridor to promote mining, processing, research,
and manufacturing. This corridor will support the mineral-rich states
of Odisha, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
Container Manufacturing
A container manufacturing scheme will be launched for a period of
5 years with a budgetary allocation of ₹10,000 crore.
We are paving the way to sustain the pace
of growth. We want to ensure that pace of
growth or sustained economic development.
Primarily, we are focusing on creating an
ecosystem with structural reforms. Our reform
activities will continue with the objective of
creating a conducive environment for improving
productivity and generating employment
Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Finance Minister
February 16-28, 2026 || NEW INDIA SAMACHAR
UNION
2026-27
Comprehensive and
Integrated Policy
Framework Announced
The Budget 2026-27 places special
emphasis on the labour-intensive
textile sector, given its crucial role
in employment generation, exports,
rural livelihoods, and sustainable
manufacturing. A comprehensive and
integrated policy framework has been
announced to strengthen the entire
textile value chain, from fibre to fashion,
from rural industries to global markets.
Mega Textile Parks
The government has announced the
establishment of Mega Textile Parks.
These parks will also promote the
development of technical textiles.
Trade Receivables
Discounting System
To facilitate and strengthen access
to liquidity for Micro, Small, and
Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in the
textile industry, the government has
announced key measures to enhance the
effectiveness of the Trade Receivables
Discounting System (TReDS).
The budget included several
important announcements
to promote the export of
textiles, leather, and marine
product
n The export obligation period has been
extended to 12 months for exporters
of textiles, leather garments, leather or
synthetic footwear, and other leather
products manufactured using duty-free
imported raw materials.
n This measure will provide exporters
with greater operational flexibility, ease
of compliance, and improved working
capital management.
n Provision of cash assistance for
Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises
(MSMEs) in the textile industry
through TReDS.
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