Concept Note: Wool Production in India
India, holding the position of the ninth-largest wool producer globally, contributes approximately 2% to the world’s total wool production. Despite having the third-largest sheep population, the country’s wool industry is characterized by its focus on coarse and carpet-grade wool, with limited production of fine apparel-grade wool.
Wool Production Statistics
In the fiscal year 2023-24, India’s wool production was estimated at 33.69 million kilograms, marking a modest growth of 0.22% compared to the previous year. This production primarily comprises
Carpet Grade Wool: Approximately 85%
Apparel Grade Wool: Around 5%
Coarser Grade Wool: About 10%
Geographical Distribution
The distribution of wool production across Indian states is notably uneven. The leading wool-producing states and their respective contributions are:
- Rajasthan: 45.94%
- Jammu & Kashmir: 25.24%
- Gujarat: 7.08%
- Maharashtra: 5.42%
- Himachal Pradesh: 4.33%
Rajasthan stands out as the predominant contributor, accounting for nearly half of the nation’s wool output.
Industry Structure and Employment
India’s wool industry encompasses both organized and decentralized sectors:
Organized Sector: Includes composite mills, combing units, worsted and non-worsted spinning units, knitwear and woven garment units, and machine-made carpet manufacturing units.
- Decentralized Sector: Comprises hosiery and knitting, power-looms, hand-knotted carpets, druggets, namadahs, independent dyeing, process houses, and woolen handloom sectors.
The industry provides employment to approximately 1.2 million individuals in the organized sector and about 2 million in associated industries, including around 0.3 million engaged in carpet weaving.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite a substantial sheep population, India’s wool production faces several challenges:
Limited Fine Wool Production: The predominance of coarse wool necessitates significant imports of fine wool to meet domestic demand for apparel-grade products.
Low Productivity: The average annual wool yield per sheep in India is approximately 0.9 kg, which is lower than the global average.
Quality Improvement Needs: Enhancing sheep breeds and adopting better shearing and processing techniques are essential to improve wool quality.
India’s wool industry, while holding a significant position globally, has considerable potential for growth and development. Addressing challenges related to wool quality, productivity, and processing infrastructure can reduce import dependence and strengthen the domestic wool sector. Strategic initiatives focusing on breed improvement, technological advancements, and skill development are crucial for the industry’s sustainable growth.
Concept Note: Wool Production in India
Concept Notes on Wool Production in India
