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The textile industry occupies a unique position in the Indian economy because it contributes significantly to industrial production (14 per cent), employment generation (35 million persons directly the second largest after agriculture) and foreign exchange earnings (about 24.6 per cent). It contributes 4 per cent towards GDP. It is the only country, which is self-reliant and complete in the value chain i.e., from raw material to the highest value-added products. In ancient India, cotton textiles were produced with hand spinning and handloom weaving techniques. After the 18th century, power looms came into use. Our traditional industries suffered a setback during the colonial period because they could not compete with the mill-made cloth from England. In the early years, the cotton textile industry was concentrated in the cotton-growing belt of Maharashtra and Gujarat. Availability of raw cotton, transport including accessible port facilities, labour, moist climate, etc. contributed towards its localization.

Answer the following MCQ by choosing the most appropriate option:

When did the power looms come into use?

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After 17th century

After 18th century

After 10th century

It was in use since ancient times

answer is B.

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Detailed Solution

The power looms came into use after the 18th century.
A power loom is a piece of mechanised machinery used in weaving. It is a modern machine widely used since the Industrial Revolution and is powered by water, steam or electricity. The idea of starting factory production of cotton cloth and yarn in India developed in the first two decades of the nineteenth century. In 1818 in Calcutta, India's first cotton factory was built. During the 18th century, technological breakthroughs were required, and the mill sector could not meet this demand. As a result, numerous units experienced high production costs and large losses, placing them closer to the mills. The labour crisis has worsened due to a lack of qualified personnel.

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