NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Textiles, Giriraj Singh, inaugurated the 71st edition of the India International Garment Fair (IIGF) at Yashobhoomi convention centre in Dwarka.
The event, organised by the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) in collaboration with major Indian garment associations, aims to showcase India’s prowess in the global apparel market.
In his inaugural address, Minister Giriraj Singh underscored the fair’s significance as a pivotal platform for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the textile sector, highlighting India’s diverse offerings and latest trends to international buyers.
ALSO READ: India to host inaugural international solar festival in September
“Developing world-class manufacturing facilities is crucial to realising the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Make in India’ with ‘Zero Effect; Zero Defect’,” Minister Singh remarked, emphasising the government’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and ease of doing business.
FLASH: At the 71st IIGF held in New Delhi, Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh says, “My challenge is to create a roadmap to surpass China in the textile industry. While China has a large workforce, India also boasts a substantial workforce of 10.2 crore, with more than 100… pic.twitter.com/xgvXKM1Rvu
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) June 25, 2024
Singh projected India’s robust economic growth, citing a GDP growth rate of 7.2% and anticipated ascension to the third-largest economy by 2027-28. He outlined ambitious targets for the Indian apparel and textiles market, aiming to escalate its current $165 billion size to $350 billion, with a specific directive to achieve $50 billion by 2030.
The Minister also addressed competitive challenges, stating, “My challenge is not Bangladesh; I aim to surpass China in the textile industry.” He proposed creating small clusters across India to bolster raw material garment (RMG) exports, noting India’s abundant labour force and eco-friendly employment opportunities, especially for women.
Expanding on government initiatives, Minister Singh announced the extension of the Rs 10,000 crore Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme to the garment sector, aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing and exports. He emphasized revitalising textile parks and promoting green textiles as key priorities.’
ALSO READ: Misa Bharti becomes first Lalu family member in Lok Sabha in 15 Years
During the event, Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman of AEPC, acknowledged global headwinds impacting Indian apparel exports but highlighted the industry’s resilience amidst adversity. Meanwhile, Shri Mithileshwar Thakur, Secretary General of AEPC, emphasised the potential for Indian apparel exporters to expand into developed markets in the coming years.
FLASH: At the 71st India International Garment Fair, Minister of Textiles, Giriraj Singh, “Our goal is to take the textile industry to 50 billion dollars. I want to thank our Prime Minister, who has provided a roadmap, and today we have already achieved an 8 billion dollar mark.”… pic.twitter.com/PUqe8cxGAT
— The New Indian (@TheNewIndian_in) June 25, 2024
The fair, which attracted more than 600 buyers from 50 countries, features knowledge sessions covering topics such as navigating global trade challenges, manufacturing excellence in apparel, and sustainable fashion trends. Additionally, two fashion shows daily from June 25 to 27 will spotlight collections exhibited during the event.
Giriraj Singh reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering a robust textile industry through strategic initiatives and global partnerships. “We have made free trade agreements with more than a dozen countries,” he stated, highlighting India’s proactive approach in international trade negotiations.