Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Thalapathy Vijay has written his first official letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after taking office, demanding the removal of the 11% import duty on cotton. The Thalapathy Vijay cotton import duty appeal comes amid rising concerns over increasing cotton and yarn prices affecting the textile industry in Tamil Nadu.
Vijay warned that the ongoing crisis could severely impact textile exports, industrial growth, and employment opportunities, especially for women in rural and semi-urban areas.
Vijay Raises Concern Over Textile Industry Crisis
In his letter to Prime Minister Modi, Vijay highlighted the growing crisis in the textile and garment sector. He stated that Tamil Nadu remains India’s largest textile and apparel exporter and that millions of people depend on the industry directly and indirectly.
Moreover, he stressed that rural women form a major part of the workforce in the textile sector.
According to Vijay, rising cotton and yarn prices have created serious pressure on manufacturers and exporters across the state.
Thalapathy Vijay Cotton Import Duty: Cotton and Yarn Prices Witness Sharp Rise
The Chief Minister pointed out that cotton prices increased sharply over the last two months. He stated that cotton prices jumped from ₹54,700 to ₹67,700 per candy, marking a 25% increase.
In addition, yarn prices rose from ₹301 to ₹330 per kilogram.
The Thalapathy Vijay cotton import duty issue has become critical because textile industries are struggling to secure affordable raw materials.
Vijay explained that lower cotton production and increased trading activity contributed to the sudden price rise.
Vijay Demands Removal of 11% Import Duty
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister urged the central government to remove the existing 11% import duty on cotton and reduce it to zero.
He argued that duty-free cotton imports would help ensure a stable supply of raw materials for the textile sector.
Furthermore, Vijay stated that the move would help industries fulfill export commitments and remain globally competitive.
He emphasized that the textile and apparel sector is one of the largest employers after agriculture, making government intervention extremely important.
Thalapathy Vijay Cotton Import Duty: Focus on Protecting Jobs and Exports
Vijay highlighted that lakhs of workers depend on the textile industry for their livelihood. He warned that continued price increases could threaten jobs and affect industrial production.
Moreover, he said the government must act quickly to protect employment opportunities and maintain the stability of the textile value chain.
The Thalapathy Vijay cotton import duty demand also focuses on strengthening India’s export competitiveness in global textile markets.
Tamil Nadu Textile Sector Under Pressure
Tamil Nadu has long been a major textile hub in India. However, rising input costs have increased pressure on spinning mills, garment manufacturers, and exporters.
Industry experts believe that reducing import duty on cotton could provide temporary relief to businesses facing raw material shortages.
Additionally, textile associations have repeatedly requested policy support to stabilize prices and ensure uninterrupted production.
Political and Economic Significance
The letter marks Vijay’s first major economic intervention after assuming office as Chief Minister. Political observers believe the move reflects his focus on employment, industry protection, and economic stability.
At the same time, the issue has gained national attention because of its direct impact on exports, manufacturing, and rural employment.
Conclusion
Thalapathy Vijay’s demand to remove cotton import duty has intensified discussions around India’s textile policy and industrial challenges. By urging the Centre to reduce the duty to zero, Vijay aims to protect jobs, support exporters, and stabilize the textile sector in Tamil Nadu.
The central government’s response to the Thalapathy Vijay cotton import duty request will now be closely watched by industry stakeholders across the country.
Key Points of the Thalapathy Vijay Cotton Import Duty:
- Thalapathy Vijay writes first official letter to PM Modi.
- Demands removal of 11% import duty on cotton.
- Rising cotton and yarn prices hit Tamil Nadu textile sector.
- Vijay warns of threat to jobs, especially rural women workers.
- Tamil Nadu seeks duty-free cotton imports to protect exports.
