Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh has called on agricultural experts to explore blending milkweed fibres with polyester, wool, viscose, or cotton to develop premium textiles. He believes this innovation will address the country’s growing fibre demands and support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Addressing scientists and scholars at Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University (RPCAU) in Pusa, Bihar, the Minister suggested that properly developed milkweed fibre could surpass even Kashmir’s renowned pashmina in quality. He highlighted that combining milkweed with other fibres enhances fabric qualities like warmth, breathability, and softness, making it suitable for luxurious and comfortable textiles.

The Minister also revealed plans for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between RPCAU and the National Technical Textile Mission to boost farmers’ incomes and promote agro textile development.

RPCAU Vice-Chancellor P. S. Pandey announced the upcoming establishment of a new agricultural research centre at the university, aimed at demonstrating the role of technical textiles in agriculture.