Industry stakeholders in Karnataka have formally petitioned the state government to expedite the land acquisition and primary infrastructure phases of the PM MITRA (Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel) park in Kalaburagi.

As of April 7, 2026, the project remains a cornerstone of the ‘Vision 2030’ strategy, which aims to position the state as a global destination for man-made fiber (MMF) and technical textiles. The urgency stems from the need to secure a projected Rs 10,000 crore in private investment, which hinges on the provision of ‘plug-and-play’ facilities, including common effluent treatment plants and high-tension power connectivity. Unlike traditional fragmented clusters, the PM MITRA framework is designed to integrate the entire value chain from spinning to garmenting within a single 1,000-acre zone, potentially generating 100,000 direct jobs.

Global competitiveness and logistic optimization

The delay in fast-tracking the Kalaburagi site creates a critical opportunity cost as global apparel brands seek ‘China Plus One’ sourcing alternatives. Data from the Ministry of Textiles suggests, integrated parks can reduce logistical overheads by nearly 15 per cent, a vital margin in a high-inflation environment where maritime freight remains volatile. Karnataka’s leadership in apparel exports must be defended through institutional speed; the PM MITRA park is the fiscal anchor required to transition from basic cotton goods to high-value industrial fabrics, states an industrial lead from the Karnataka Hosiery and Allied Industries Association. Successful implementation would mirror the success of specialized zones in Vietnam, providing Indian exporters with the scale needed to utilize Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the UK and EU effectively.

State-led manufacturing and export strategy

Karnataka is a premier Indian textile hub, contributing significantly to national silk and readymade garment exports. The state is currently prioritizing the development of the Kalaburagi PM MITRA park to foster an integrated ‘fiber-to-fashion’ ecosystem. Historically a leader in ethnic wear, the region now targets a $5 billion annual export milestone through automation and sustainable manufacturing.