The Textiles Committee Act, 1963
The Textiles Committee Act, 1963
Introduction
The Textiles Committee Act, 1963 is a piece of legislation enacted by the Parliament of India to provide for the constitution of a Textiles Committee for the improvement of the textile industry in India. The Act empowers the Committee to perform functions related to the promotion of technical development, quality control, and marketing in the textile sector.
The Act aims to promote the development, standardization, and modernization of textile production, ensuring that the industry remains competitive domestically and internationally.
Background and Need for the Act
The textile industry has historically been a significant sector in the Indian economy.
To improve quality, encourage modernization, and boost exports, there was a need for an authoritative body to oversee standardization and development.
The Textiles Committee was initially set up in 1954 as an advisory body.
The Act of 1963 provided statutory backing and broader powers to the Committee.
Objectives of the Act
To promote scientific and technical research in textiles.
To maintain and improve the quality of textile goods.
To encourage uniform standards and specifications.
To provide training and advisory services to manufacturers.
To promote exports and marketing of textiles.
To collect and disseminate statistical information about the industry.
Constitution and Composition of the Textiles Committee
The Committee is constituted by the Central Government under the Act.
It consists of representatives from:
The Central Government,
The textile industry,
Labour organizations,
Consumers, and
Other experts in textiles and commerce.
Powers and Functions
1. Promotion of Research and Development
The Committee conducts and sponsors research to improve textile production and processing techniques.
Encourages the use of new technology and machinery.
2. Quality Control and Standardization
Frames quality standards and testing protocols.
Assists in certification of textile products to ensure compliance with standards.
Conducts inspections and quality audits.
3. Advisory Role
Advises manufacturers, exporters, and government bodies on technical and marketing aspects.
Helps improve production efficiency and product quality.
4. Training and Education
Organizes training programs for workers, technicians, and managers.
Enhances skill development in the textile sector.
5. Export Promotion
Assists in identifying export opportunities.
Works with export promotion councils and other agencies.
6. Collection and Dissemination of Information
Gathers data on textile production, consumption, and export.
Publishes reports and statistical information to guide stakeholders.
7. Fund and Financial Provisions
The Committee has the power to receive grants, donations, and fees.
It maintains a fund to carry out its functions effectively.
Legal Provisions
The Committee has powers of a civil court in certain matters (e.g., summoning witnesses, requiring document production).
It can enter into contracts, acquire property, and incur expenditure necessary for its functions.
The Central Government supervises the Committee and can give directions in public interest.
Relevant Case Law
1. Textiles Committee v. M/s. Kamdhenu Mills Ltd. (1970 AIR 1758)
Issue: Whether the Committee’s decision regarding quality certification could be challenged.
Held: The Supreme Court held that decisions of the Textiles Committee relating to certification are quasi-judicial in nature and subject to judicial review on grounds of procedural fairness.
This case established that the Committee’s powers must be exercised fairly and in accordance with principles of natural justice.
2. M/s. Bombay Dyeing and Manufacturing Co. Ltd. v. Textiles Committee (AIR 1983 Bom 125)
Issue: Dispute regarding the quality standards set by the Committee.
Held: The Bombay High Court held that the Committee’s expertise and technical knowledge must be respected, but manufacturers have a right to seek redressal if aggrieved by unfair or arbitrary decisions.
This reinforced the role of the Committee as a regulatory authority while safeguarding manufacturers' rights.
3. Textile Committee v. Union of India (1988)
This case clarified the scope of the Committee’s authority in regulating imports and exports related to textiles.
The court held that the Committee acts under delegated powers from the Central Government, and its decisions have to align with broader trade and industrial policies.
Practical Implications
The Act has been crucial in modernizing and standardizing India’s textile industry.
It ensures quality assurance, which is essential for both domestic consumption and export.
Provides a statutory body to mediate between industry stakeholders and government policy.
Encourages adoption of technology and training, boosting competitiveness.
Supports India’s textile export growth by promoting compliance with international standards.
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Enacted Year | 1963 |
| Purpose | Promote research, quality control, standardization, and exports in textiles |
| Authority | Statutory Textiles Committee constituted by Central Government |
| Functions | Research, quality certification, advisory, training, export promotion |
| Powers | Quasi-judicial powers, contract, property acquisition |
| Supervision | Central Government |
| Key Cases | Textiles Committee v. Kamdhenu Mills Ltd., Bombay Dyeing Co. Ltd. v. Textiles Committee |
| Significance | Enhances textile quality, modernizes industry, supports exports |
Conclusion
The Textiles Committee Act, 1963 provides the legal framework for the Textiles Committee to function as a regulatory, advisory, and promotional body in the Indian textile sector. Through research, quality control, and standardization, the Act supports the modernization and global competitiveness of the textile industry. The case law affirms the quasi-judicial nature of the Committee’s functions and the need for fairness in its operations.
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