Aak Plant
The Aak plant (Calotropis gigantea), a desert plant once dismissed as a weed, commonly found in the dry zones in Rajasthan, is now being transformed into fiber for textiles. This was made possible through a unique initiative supported by international fashion designer and social activist Ruma Devi.
Through the Ruma Devi Foundation, a grassroots movement has begun in the region where local women and farmers are being trained to collect and process fiber from the Aakpadia, the fruit of the Aak plant. This plant grows naturally in the harsh climate of Rajasthan, requiring minimal water and no fertilisers, making it a strong candidate for producing sustainable, eco-friendly fiber.
The initiative has attracted national attention. Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh has highlighted the effort, involving NITRA (Northern India Textile Research Association), which confirmed that Aak fiber is both warm and durable. Early products made from this fiber include jackets, quilts, and sleeping bags, all benefiting from its lightweight and breathable nature.
W. L. Gore & Associates has unveiled new material innovations to help apparel manufacturers meet growing consumer demand for versatile…
Renfro Brands has expanded its partnership with supply chain technology provider Inspectorio to strengthen responsible sourcing, management, and traceability.
HKRITA has signed a landmark MoU with textile company Jeanologia and recycling specialist Looptworks to establish the Green Machine Circular…
Reju has joined Recycling Europe’s textiles division, strengthening its commitment to advancing circularity within the European textile industry.
Teijin Frontier has developed an polyester fibre technology enabling the production of a new textile offering high heat retention and…
CreateMe Technologies, specializing in automated apparel manufacturing, has announced partnerships with Avalo and Laguna Fabrics to launch Seed to System.