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Business Standard
11-06-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Centre sets up a new task force to boost country's textile exports
In a bid to enhance India's textile exports at a time when the country is signing trade deals with developed nations, the government has set up a new task force that will look into sector-specific bottlenecks such as regulatory hurdles, cost competitiveness and lack of enough export credit. Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal has been appointed as the chair of the task force with representation from officials of Department of Commerce, Ministry of Textiles, Directorate General of Foreign Trade, along with representatives from export promotion councils, industry associations and exporters. In its first meeting, the task force decided to set up several issue-specific sub-groups, which will be led by relevant ministries in coordination with export promotion councils and industry representatives. These sub-groups will provide actionable recommendations to the task force, the commerce and industry ministry said. The discussion touched upon a wide range of issues affecting the textile value chain. These included upgradation of Environmental, Social and Governance infrastructure in garment manufacturing, use of renewable energy in manufacturing, European Union's Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), strengthening e-commerce for export growth, labour issues, cost competitiveness for productivity enhancement, skilling, and branding. Participants also raised issues with export-related incentives such as RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) and RoSCTL (Rebate of State and Central Taxes and Levies). They also sought collateral support for export credit for MSMEs. Stakeholders also discussed PM MITRA textile parks, development of new Jute Diversified Products (JDPs), separate harmonised system (HS) codes for Geographical Indication products, productivity enhancement for natural fibres such as jute and matters about the Export Promotion Mission.
Fashion Value Chain
07-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Reimagining Indian Jewellery: The Rise of Small Brands
Arya Prameh, Fashion Management Scholar, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Govt of India, Daman Campus Small jewellery brands are playing a transformative role in the Indian market by embracing innovation, storytelling, and personalization. Unlike traditional jewellery houses, these emerging labels focus on creating pieces that reflect individuality and self-expression, tapping into the growing demand for unique, versatile, and meaningful designs. The rise of digital platforms, social media, and online retail has allowed these brands to reach wider audiences, particularly younger consumers who seek jewellery that resonates with their personal style and values. This shift is further amplified by the increasing popularity of trending jewellery types such as arm jewellery statement arm cuffs and bangles that have gone viral on social media alongside bold gold pieces, colorful gemstones, layered necklaces, and geometric designs. These trends reflect a blend of contemporary aesthetics with traditional Indian craftsmanship, appealing to fashion-forward buyers who want jewellery that is both striking and wearable. Source: Technavio A prime example of this movement is Quirksmith, founded by sisters Divya and Pragya Batra. With Divya's background as a NIFT gold medalist in jewellery design and Pragya's expertise in business, Quirksmith was launched in 2016 from a modest beginning at a Bangalore flea market. The brand quickly gained recognition for its poetic, conversation-starting silver jewellery that encourages wearers to 'wear your emotions.' Quirksmith's commitment to empowerment is evident in its workforce, where over sixty percent are women, and in its support for more than fifty artisans across India. Their designs blend traditional Indian elements with contemporary aesthetics, incorporating popular trends like statement arm jewellery, layered rings, and bold geometric shapes. By focusing on authenticity, craftsmanship, and community, Quirksmith has built a loyal following and set a benchmark for how small brands can thrive in a competitive landscape. The success of brands like Quirksmith signals a broader shift in the Indian jewellery sector. New entrants are accelerating market growth by offering fresh perspectives, innovative designs, and competitive pricing, compelling established players to adapt and innovate. As consumers increasingly seek jewellery that tells a story and aligns with their values, small brands are not only capturing market share but also redefining what jewellery means in India. They are turning accessories into powerful symbols of identity, empowerment, and creativity, ensuring that the future of Indian jewellery is as dynamic and diverse as the country itself. The rise of trending pieces such as arm jewellery, bold gold, colorful gemstones, and layered styles highlights how these brands are blending tradition with modern trends to meet evolving consumer tastes.
Fashion Value Chain
05-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Leveraging AI Agents in Apparel and Textiles to enhance efficiency and Innovation
Dr Tanmay Kandekar, Associate Professor, Department of Fashion Technology, National Institute of fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Mumbai Campus Amarthya Shekhar K N, Academic Scholar, Department of Computer Science, Govt. Engineering College, Trichur, Kerala The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in the apparel and textile industries is transforming the way businesses operate, creating new opportunities for innovation and growth. On one hand, AI-powered technologies are revolutionizing design, production, and customer experience, enabling companies to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. However, the increasing use of AI also raises concerns about job displacement, as automation and machine learning algorithms take over tasks traditionally performed by humans. As the industry navigates this double-edged sword, it is important to understand the impact of AI on job creation and displacement, and to explore strategies for upskilling and reskilling workers to thrive in an AI-driven future. Artificial intelligence autonomously makes decisions and takes actions autonomously without human intervention. They perceive the environment through data, sensors, or other inputs. AI agents use algorithms and logical reasoning about the data and make decisions. Their actions include sending messages, controlling devices, and interacting with humans. There are different types of AI agents that influences decision making. Simple Reflex Agents react to current state without considering future consequences. Model-Based Reflex Agents uses internal models to reason about the world. Goal-Based Agents make decisions based on goals and desired outcomes and Utility-Based Agents choose actions that maximize utility or value. They apply in contexts and work as virtual assistants to enable as chatbots and voice assistants, and robotics ensure autonomous interaction with the environment. As recommendation systems, it gives suggestions for products or services. I powered agent works as a tool for informed decision-making as a decision support system. They are intelligent and can learn, reason, and adapt. They have autonomy to operate independently and interact with humans and other systems. The applications of AI agents are transforming industries and revolutionizing the way we live and work. It has the power to create Job and displace it. World Economic Forum expects that it can create 97 million new jobs by the end of this year,2025. The jobs are created in AI development, implementation, and maintenance professionals, as well as positions focused on leveraging AI for innovation and growth. A survey from LinkedIn shows that a 30% annual growth rate for AI-related roles in fields like AI integration, organizational transformation, and AI implementation consulting. While the industry fears about a potential job displacement, many companies anticipate net job creation due to automation, with 50% of companies expecting automation to lead to new job opportunities. However, this revolutionary technology requires careful handling and regular updates to avoid potential downsides. The jobs roles that are at risks are those involve repetitive, rule-based, or data-driven tasks are those more susceptible to automation. The jobs of customer service representatives, car and truck drivers, data entry clerks, administrative secretaries, and accounting professionals have the potential to be absorbed by AI agents. According to US job loss data, AI was directly responsible for 3,900 job losses, accounting for 5% of the total in May 2023. The report says that AI may replace 300 million jobs globally, with 9.1% of all jobs worldwide potentially being affected. Manufacturing, customer service, and administrative sectors are among those most vulnerable to AI-driven jobs that faces the job displacement. Technology has a history that displaced many routine jobs and created new and promising avenues. To remain relevant, workers will need to develop AI-related skills, as 83% of businesses believe that AI skills determine job security, a way to upskill and reskill. The cut throat competition forces companies to reimage their workforces, combining human creativity with AI capabilities to drive innovation and growth and the industry adaptation is quick and faster in this sector. The AI Job market is continuously evolving, while AI poses challenges, it also presents opportunities for workers to transition into new roles and industries.
Fashion Value Chain
04-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Transforming Fashion: Global Summit 2025 Global Fashion Summit at Copenhagen
By Ms Shweta Sheth The Global Fashion Summit 2025 is taking place in Copenhagen from June 3-5. It is expected to bring together industry leaders to address the fashion industry's most pressing challenges, including climate change, human rights violations, and global inequities. With the theme 'Barriers and Bridges,' the summit will explore ways to transform traditional barriers into bridges for tangible change, focusing on impact-centric topics related to social and environmental challenges. The summit will feature practical case studies and visionary discussions on balancing regulatory compliance with creative and sustainable growth, building the business case for sustainability, aligning financial viability with the planet's needs, and climate adaptation and resilience in the fashion industry. By leveraging innovation, technology, and collaboration, the summit aims to drive meaningful change and create a more sustainable and equitable future for the fashion industry, where sustainability is not deprioritized amid economic volatility, and business strategy is aligned with external mandates without sacrificing creativity. The summit will spotlight pathways to balance competing demands, such as climate action with business resilience, regulatory compliance with radical innovation, and near-term possibilities for action with long-term vision, ultimately enabling collaboration and guiding implementation towards a net-positive future. While the 2025 summit will be held in Copenhagen, previous editions have been hosted in other regions, including Asia (Singapore) and North America (Boston), indicating a global outreach. Convening decision-makers from brands, retailers, suppliers, policymakers, and interconnected industries, the Summit serves as the nexus for agenda-setting discussions on the most critical environmental, social, and ethical issues facing our industry and planet. (Writer is an Academic Scholar, Department of Fashion Management Studies, national Institute of Fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Daman Campus.)
Fashion Value Chain
03-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Power of Community-Driven Approaches in Indian Fashion
Avantika Kejale, Fashion Management Scholar, Department of Fashion Management Studies, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Govt of India. Dr Vidhu Sekhar P, Assistant Professor, Department of Fashion Management Studies, National Institute of Fashion Technology, Ministry of Textiles, Govt of India. The Indian fashion industry too faces the economic uncertainty due to changing consumer behaviors, and increasing competition. To stay ahead, brands focus on building genuine communities that foster loyalty and advocacy. By adopting community-driven approaches, Indian fashion brands can create lasting relationships with customers. The Indian fashion market is influenced by factors like fluctuating consumer confidence, rising costs, and shifting spending habits. As per a report by McKinsey & Company, Indian consumers are becoming more discerning, seeking brands that align with their values and offer personalized experiences. Building Communities for Indian Fashion brands have many advantages. Indian consumers are looking for brands that align with their values and beliefs. Brands that promote sustainability, inclusivity, and social responsibility are more likely to resonate with Indian consumers. They seek emotional connections with brands that go beyond just products. Brands that create memorable experiences and engage with their customers on a personal level can build strong loyalty. Indian fashion brands need to understand the cultural nuances and preferences of their target audience. By incorporating local elements and themes, brands can create a sense of belonging among their customers. Few leading Indian brands have successfully built communities. Fab-India has created a community of customers who share similar values by promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Their focus on traditional Indian crafts and textiles has also helped them build a loyal customer base. Manyavar, the ethnic wear brand has built a strong community around its brand by promoting cultural heritage and traditional values. Their festive collections and social media campaigns have helped them engage with customers and create a sense of belonging. Sabyasachi, the luxury Indian fashion brand has created a community of customers who appreciate high-end craftsmanship and attention to detail. Their bespoke designs and personalized experiences have helped them build a loyal customer base. Tata Cliq through their e-commerce platform has created a community of fashion enthusiasts through its 'Cliq Insider' program, offering exclusive benefits and early access to new products. W for Woman fashion brand has built a community around body positivity and self-love, promoting inclusivity and diversity in its marketing campaigns. There are different approaches followed by brands to build communities. Brands create communities around activities like yoga, fitness, or cultural events. Through yoga, brands partner with influencers and fitness enthusiasts to create a community around wellness and mindfulness. They Build communities around charismatic founders or brand ambassadors. Fashion brands make personal connection with the stories of founders and on their values, creating a personal connection with customers. Brands create communities around shared values like sustainability, inclusivity, or social responsibility. Sustainable fashion brands engage with customers who share similar values and promote eco-friendly practices. Building genuine communities is crucial for Indian fashion brands to stay ahead in the market. With consumers increasingly seeking connections centered around camaraderie and purpose, brands must shift from mere marketing buzzwords to meaningful relationships.
