The Chhattisgarh government has signed a strategic partnership with the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), taking a big step toward establishing the state as a prominent textile and apparel hub.

The announcement was made during the CMAI FAB Show held at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai met with industry leaders and investors from the textile sector, highlighting the state's vision and inviting them to invest in Chhattisgarh.

“We are now not only focused on simplifying the process of doing business but also speeding it up,” said the Chief Minister. He added that the newly signed agreement, which includes setting up a CMAI Textile and Apparel Facilitation Centre in Raipur, would play a key role in expanding the textile sector and creating new job opportunities.

He also emphasized that textiles are deeply connected with rural employment, skill training, and innovation.

In a related move, the state cabinet has approved the development of a National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campus in Nava Raipur. This decision reflects the government’s emphasis on building talent and encouraging design thinking in the textile sector.

CM Sai also pointed to the state’s traditional textile legacy, especially the kosa silk cocoon found in regions like Bastar and Surguja, which he believes holds great potential for growth. With institutional support from NIFT and CMAI, he said, local handloom products could gain more visibility and recognition.

Chhattisgarh's updated industrial policy has attracted promising investment proposals across various industries, from MSMEs to high-tech sectors such as semiconductors. Over 350 reforms have been put in place to streamline investments, with added benefits for units set up in tribal areas like Bastar and Surguja.

With an ample supply of water and electricity, a central location, and enhanced logistics infrastructure—like the new cargo facilities at Raipur Airport—the state is positioning itself as an ideal destination for textile enterprises. The Chief Minister urged industry stakeholders to take advantage of the favorable business environment now in place.