On March 21, 2025, the vibrant city of Panipat, India, hosted the 2nd International Home Textile Summit (IHTS 2025), organized by the Home Textile Exporters’ Welfare Association (HEWA). This summit was a remarkable gathering of leading figures in the home textile industry, including manufacturers, exporters, policymakers, and global buyers. The event provided a platform to discuss the future of home textiles and explore ways to enhance India’s footprint in international markets.
The summit kicked off with an inauguration led by Shri Suresh Prabhu, former Minister of Commerce and Industry, who acknowledged the resilience of Indian textile manufacturers. His commendation for HEWA President Anant Srivastava and Director Vikas Singh Chauhan reflected the dedication to strengthening India’s textile export ecosystem.
Dr. Waiel Awwad, Secretary General of the Indo-Arab Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture, captivated attendees with his keynote address. He highlighted the longstanding trade relationships between India and Arab nations, pointing out the increasing global demand for Indian textiles.
A notable feature of the summit was the panel discussion moderated by Vikas Singh Chauhan, titled “Strengthening Global Partnerships: Home Textile Innovation, Possibilities, and the Way Forward.” This session encouraged dynamic dialogues on emerging trends, sustainable practices, and opportunities within global markets.
The event brought together buyers from various countries such as South Korea, South Africa, the United Kingdom, the UAE, Russia, and several Arab nations. Indian exporters took this opportunity to showcase their latest innovations, promoting collaboration across borders.
The event was attended by Mr. Gopal, representing a significant presence in the industry. Abhyansh was among the key participants and was recognized with an award as a token of appreciation for their contributions. This acknowledgment underscores Abhyansh’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive growth in the home textile sector.
The insights gained from IHTS 2025 were invaluable. The expert panels provided knowledge on market expansion, sustainability efforts, and necessary policy reforms. The event offered attendees an opportunity to connect and engage with international buyers, fostering meaningful relationships. Moreover, there were discussions around government trade policies and export incentives that could benefit exporters. The summit featured advancements in sustainable home textiles that reflect the industry’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.
During his address, HEWA President Anant Srivastava shared the summit’s theme: “Unlocking the Potential of the Home Textile Industry.” He aligned this vision with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Viksit Bharat 2047 initiative, emphasizing key priorities such as Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Sustainability, Job Creation and Global Leadership.
His inspiring conclusion echoed Mahatma Gandhi’s words: “The future depends on what we do in the present,” reinforcing a collective commitment to action.
The 2nd International Home Textile Summit was a significant event that brought together diverse perspectives and fostered collaboration within the home textile industry. With insights into sustainability and global market trends, participants left with renewed energy and ideas to drive growth in this vital sector. The commitment to innovation and partnership will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of home textiles in India and beyond.
