Why I Love Tirupur: The Hidden Gem of Indian Textile Industry

I hail from Assam but I hold a special place in my heart for Tirupur. It stands out not only for its thriving textile industry but also for the simplicity and education of its people. Tirupur, often referred to as the Cotton City, is more than just a city – it's a livelihood and a home for many who seek opportunity.

My Connection to Tirupur

While my native hometown is Pollachi, my father and mother found work in Tirupur during my childhood. They worked hard to survive, and now that I'm grown, I understand the sacrifices they made. Their perseverance gives me the ability to support them, ensuring they live a peaceful life. This connection fuels my love for the city.

A City for Everyone

Tirupur serves as a beacon for those who wish to start their lives from scratch without prior knowledge. The key to success here is hard work. It's a city where people from various backgrounds find hope and opportunity. The stories of immigrants, including Africans, Nigers, Sundanese, Libyansians, and many more, who find employment in Tirupur further attest to its value as a melting pot of cultures.

A Suburb of Textile Greatness

Tirupur is a hidden gem within the textile industry, contributing significantly to India's economic growth through its export of cotton knitwear. The city's exports account for 90% of India's cotton knitwear. These cotton knitwear exports, valued at over 17500 crores (approximately US$2.4 billion) in 2013, surpass the contributions of many metro cities.

Nicknames and History

Tirupur is known by several nicknames, including Banyan City, Dollar City, and Knit Wear Capital of India. Its rich history dates back to the Vedic era, with the name Tiruppur emerging during the Mahabharata era. The city has seen various rulers, from the Cheras, Cholas, Vijayanagara Empire, Madurai Nayaks, to the British East India Company, each leaving their mark on the city's development.

Rapid Emergence and Economic Growth

Tirupur's rapid emergence as a textile hub can be traced back to the 1970s when farmers began setting up small textile units. This led to a network of interconnected small-scale industries, transforming Tirupur into a major player in the global textile market. The city officially became a municipality in 2008, and in 2009, a separate Tirupur district was carved out from parts of Coimbatore and Erode.

Contribution to the Indian Economy

Tirupur's textile industry not only provides employment to over six lakh people but also contributes significantly to the country's foreign exchange earnings. It accounts for 90% of India's cotton knitwear exports. In fiscal year 2013, the textile industry was worth 17500 crores (approximately US$2.4 billion), and it continues to grow, with exports touching 40000 crores in just three years. Renowned international brands such as Nike, Lacoste, Benetton, Tommy Hilfiger, and many more source their requirements from Tirupur, further cementing its status as a global hub for clothing.

Demerits and Future Prospects

While Tirupur's economic success is undeniable, it also faces some challenges such as poor infrastructure and lack of tourism. The Cauvery tributaries also suffer from pollution. However, despite these issues, the city continues to thrive and cater to the diverse needs of international buyers. According to surveys, Tirupur can deliver custom samples in less than 12 hours and mass orders within days. The city's future looks bright as it continues to lead in the domestic and international market.

Conclusion

Do I need any other reasons to love my city? Tirupur is more than just a city to me; it's a symbol of hard work, success, and the potential for a better life. It’s a place where dreams are made and the possibilities are limitless.