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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:

What is the employment generation of the cotton textile industry?