When the first power loom began operating in Ichalkaranji in 1904, no one could have predicted that this small textile town in Maharashtra would evolve into an automation powerhouse. Today, in this Little Manchester of Maharashtra, handlooms and power looms are giving way to cutting-edge shuttle-less looms, weaving a future driven by technology and precision.
This shift was on full display at Bharat Tex 2025 held in New Delhi. When Prime Minister Narendra Modi stepped into the Ichalkaranji pavilion, he was met by a story of reinvention.
The Story
The town’s textile ecosystem has transformed dramatically, with over 15,000 fully automated shuttle-less looms now producing high-quality fabrics with minimal human intervention. In addition to 1,000 auto looms and 80,000 manually operated power looms, these state-of-the-art machines help churn out an astonishing 1.5 crore metres of fabric daily — valued at ₹50 crore.
From cotton and dyed yarns to exquisite Dobby, Jacquard, and non-woven fabrics, Ichalkaranji’s manufacturers weave a wide range. With a population of over 3.5 lakh, Ichalkaranji pulses with the relentless energy of its 80,000 textile workers.
The Ecosystem
Ichalkaranji is not just a textile town—it is a self-sustaining industrial ecosystem. Training institutes equip workers with the latest skills, specialised mechanics ensure looms run smoothly, and a network of traders fuels the industry’s relentless momentum. Every aspect of the supply chain is deeply embedded in the town’s economic fabric, say Basant Mantri of Bhagwati Textiles and Sunil Bangad of the Bangad Group who are among the young generation of textile players ushering in tech and automation to improve efficiency and quality.
“The direct and indirect investment here stands at a colossal ₹75,000 crore,” says Anil Goyal, President of the Ichalkaranji Shuttleless Fabrics Manufacturers Association.
The Missing Link
Across India, leading textile brands silently depend on Ichalkaranji for their fabric, yet the town remains an unsung hero. Industrialist Ravishankar Panchloriya identifies the missing link—textile processing infrastructure. “We have the potential to create world-class finished textiles and establish our own brands,” he explains. “But the cost of setting up a common effluent treatment plant and zero liquid discharge facility is astronomical.” So, the town is forced to export raw fabric, letting others reap the benefits of its production.
However, change is on the horizon. PM Modi’s visit to Ichalkaranji’s pavilion at Bharat Tex 2025 has put a spotlight on the cluster’s potential, drawing fresh investments, and hope of it becoming a global brand.