NTTM Launches India’s First Scientific Model to Recycle National Flags and Defence-Grade Fibres

The National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) has launched India’s first scientific model for recycling retired national flags and defence-grade aramid fibres. This initiative promotes sustainability, innovation, and dignified reuse in the technical textiles sector, marking a significant step forward for both environmental responsibility and national pride.

NTTM’s Initiative for Sustainable Textile Recycling

The National Technical Textiles Mission, under the Ministry of Textiles, has supported a pioneering project aimed at environmentally responsible recycling. This initiative focuses on two key areas: dignified national flag recycling and high-performance aramid fibre management, ensuring a structured and scientific approach to material reuse in India.

Establishment of Atal Centre of Textile Recycling and Sustainability

Under the leadership of IIT Delhi, the Atal Centre of Textile Recycling and Sustainability has been set up in Panipat. The centre integrates technology, research, and innovation with national sustainability goals. It houses two major programmes:

• National Flag Recycling Initiative – focuses on dignified reuse of retired Indian flags.

• Aramid Fibre Recycling Programme – deals with recycling high-performance fibres used in defence and aerospace.

Demonstration Event in Panipat

The Punjab, Haryana and Delhi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) will host a demonstration event in Panipat on 28 November 2025. The event will showcase the developed technologies, highlight practical applications, and engage both industry leaders and government stakeholders. This initiative emphasizes the role of NTTM in driving sustainability and integration within technical textiles.

National Flag Recycling – A First in India

For the first time, India has a scientifically supported process for dignified recycling of retired national flags. Implemented in collaboration with industry partners, this programme ensures that fabric from old flags is either preserved or repurposed responsibly without compromising its respect or symbolism. The initiative aligns with Har Ghar Tiranga objectives and supports national heritage through sustainable practices.

Aramid Fibre Recycling – Addressing a Long-Standing Challenge

Aramid fibres, widely used in defence, aerospace, and protective textiles, generate high-performance waste that has been difficult to manage. NTTM’s new recycling programme develops innovative methods to handle, repurpose, and reuse these fibres, making the process commercially viable and environmentally friendly. This is a significant milestone for India’s technical textile sector, enabling sustainable use of high-value materials.

Industry Adoption and Impact

Several technical textile companies have started adopting research outcomes from the initiative, demonstrating confidence in the process and validating NTTM’s efforts. By converting R&D into practical and market-ready solutions, the project exemplifies how scientific research can meet industry needs while advancing national sustainability goals.

Conclusion

NTTM’s pioneering model for recycling national flags and aramid fibres represents a landmark achievement in sustainable technical textiles in India. The Atal Centre of Textile Recycling and Sustainability, the Panipat demonstration event, and industry adoption collectively reinforce the mission’s commitment to innovation, environmental responsibility, and national pride.