Textiles Ministry Sets Up Monitoring Cell To Tackle West Asia Disruptions
The Ministry of Textiles has established a dedicated monitoring cell to coordinate closely with Export Promotion Councils (EPCs), industry bodies, and government agencies in response to the evolving situation in West Asia. The move aims to safeguard India’s textile exports and ensure minimal disruption to supply chains.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing, Trade Advisor Bipin Menon said the ministry is maintaining continuous engagement with stakeholders to address challenges such as shipping delays, logistics realignment, and cost pressures. Regular consultations are being held to facilitate smoother trade operations, while advisories issued by the Directorate General of Shipping are being actively circulated.
To mitigate disruptions, alternative trade routes, including Jeddah, are being explored. The ministry is also working in coordination with the Petroleum Ministry and GAIL to maintain around 80 per cent supply continuity, with contingency measures in place for sourcing from spot markets if required. Additionally, discussions with the Department of Revenue are underway to rationalise customs duties on key textile inputs, with proposals submitted for further relief on essential raw materials.
Menon emphasised that the government’s priority remains ensuring export stability, strengthening supply chain resilience, and supporting the textile sector during the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways provided an update on the maritime situation in the Persian Gulf, highlighting measures to ensure the safety of Indian vessels and crew. Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal confirmed that all Indian seafarers in the region are safe, with no incidents reported involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours.
The ministry continues to coordinate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions, and maritime stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted operations and seafarer welfare. Through the Directorate General of Shipping, more than 2,800 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated so far, including 24 in the last 24 hours. The ADG Shipping Control Room has handled nearly 8,000 calls and over 16,800 emails since its activation, reflecting active outreach and support efforts.
Port operations across India remain normal, with no congestion reported.
On the energy front, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas assured uninterrupted supply of essential fuels. Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma stated that despite the impact of the West Asia crisis on crude oil and gas imports, the government has ensured 100 per cent supply of LPG, PNG, and CNG for domestic consumers and transport needs.
