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Textiles Minister Reviews NITRA’s Breakthrough Milkweed Fibre Project In Ghaziabad

• By  Textile Excellence
• November 29, 2025

India’s push toward sustainable textile innovation gained momentum today as the Union Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh, visited the Northern India Textile Research Association in Ghaziabad to review ongoing research on Milkweed fibre. The Minister inspected cultivation fields and interacted with scientists leading the project, which is being positioned as a promising natural fibre alternative for future textile applications.

The research team, led by NITRA Director General Dr. M. S. Parmar, highlighted that the Milkweed plant, commonly known as Aak, produces a fibre that is heat resistant, lightweight and biodegradable. Scientists believe it can play a significant role in developing performance textiles and insulation materials. Global demand for eco-friendly fibres has been rising steadily, supported by an industry shift that saw sustainable fibre consumption increase more than 18% over the past five years.

The Minister noted that the project involves collaboration among several national institutions and carries strong potential to generate new livelihood opportunities. Large tracts of arid and semi-arid regions can support Milkweed cultivation, giving farmers an additional revenue stream and strengthening rural value chains. The visit reinforces India’s broader textile innovation agenda as the country looks to expand its portfolio of indigenous speciality fibres and reduce dependence on imported alternatives.

The research team, led by NITRA Director General Dr. M. S. Parmar, highlighted that the Milkweed plant, commonly known as Aak, produces a fibre that is heat resistant, lightweight and biodegradable. Scientists believe it can play a significant role in developing performance textiles and insulation materials.