Correct Answer: (b) Textile Industry
Solution:The textile industry in India is the 2nd largest employer in the country (after the agriculture sector), providing direct employment to about 45 million people and indirect employment to about 60 million people. The textile industry in India traditionally, after agriculture, is the only industry that has generated huge employment for both skilled and unskilled labour. India's Textile Journey: From Fibre to Fabric
Cotton Production and Employment: India is the second-largest cotton producer globally, contributing 24% of global
production. Cotton farming involves around 60 lakh farmers, primarily in Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Telangana. The cotton textile value chain, from fibre processing to garment manufacturing, employs over 4.5 crore people.
Man-Made Fibre (MMF) Industry: India is also the second-largest producer of MMF, with Reliance Industries leading in
polyester and Grasim Industries being the sole domestic producer of viscose. However, MMF consumption in India remains low at 3.1 kg per capita, compared to 12 kg in China and 22.5 kg in North America. Overall fibre consumption, including natural and synthetic fibres, is 5.5 kg per capita, below the global average of 11.2 kg.
MSME Clusters and Specialisations: Around 80% of India's textile value chain operates within MSME clusters, each
specializing in different textiles:
Bhiwandi (Maharashtra) - Fabric production
Tiruppur (Tamil Nadu) - T-shirts and undergarments
Surat (Gujarat) - Polyester and nylon fabrics
Ludhiana (Punjab) - Woolen garments.