New Delhi, Aug. 19 -- The government has temporarily eliminated the 11 percent duty on raw cotton imports for 42 days ending September 30, providing interim relief to the textile and garment sector amid concerns over revenue losses from increased US tariffs.

The finance ministry announced the measure on Monday through a notification by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, removing both basic customs duty and the Agriculture Infrastructure and Development Cess on cotton imports from August 19 to September 30.

The duty exemption is expected to benefit the entire textile supply chain, including yarn, fabric, garments and made-up products, while providing relief to both industry participants and consumers.

Industry bodies, part...