The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Tamil Nadu, led by All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in the Assembly elections, will set up a large industrial estate around Tiruppur to boost the textile sector, generate lakhs of jobs, and enhance State revenues if voted to power, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal said on Friday.
Addressing mediapersons in the textile hub on Friday, Goyal said the proposed industrial expansion would transform Tiruppur into a global manufacturing centre. “We will have to expand Tiruppur. I have been in continuous contact with industry and business leaders here. I can already see huge investments coming in,” he said.
Highlighting India’s recent trade outreach, Goyal noted that the Centre had finalised nine Free Trade Agreements covering 38 developed economies, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global trade. “I have always sought inputs from Tiruppur’s textile industry while negotiating these agreements. They are excited as global markets have opened up further,” he added.
On demands from exporters to remove import duty on cotton, Goyal said the government had earlier provided relief by suspending the tax for six months. “We are currently under the Model Code of Conduct, but I will meet industry stakeholders. We will balance the interests of exporters and farmers so that both prosper,” he said. He added that zero-duty import facilities for export purposes would continue, while domestic cotton quality and demand are also improving.
Turning to State politics, Goyal downplayed the electoral prospects of actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay, founder of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam. “A film star will have attraction and fan following, and I respect him as an actor. But governance requires experience,” he said.
Backing AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, Goyal said the State needs an experienced administrator. “We want a government with organisational strength and experience. We do not want inexperience to hurt the future of our children,” he said, expressing confidence that Palaniswami would become Chief Minister.
Goyal also credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying coordination between the Centre and a State government led by the AIADMK would ensure a “bright future” for Tamil Nadu.
Published on April 10, 2026