The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) held the AEPC Excellence Honours 2023–24–25 on 20th December 2025 in New Delhi, recognising outstanding export performance in India’s apparel sector. The event was attended by C. P. Radhakrishnan, Vice President of India, as the chief guest.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said the textiles and apparel sector is the country’s second-largest employer and delivers higher returns per dollar of investment, making it critical to India’s economic growth. He emphasised the importance of expanding India’s network of free trade agreements to ensure a level playing field with competing exporting nations such as Bangladesh in global textile and apparel markets.
He also highlighted the role of government initiatives in supporting the industry, noting that schemes such as the Production Linked Incentive programme and the PM MITRA Parks initiative are aiding capacity expansion and infrastructure modernisation. He added that skill development under the SAMARTH scheme, simplified labour codes and ongoing free trade agreement negotiations are further strengthening the sector’s overall ecosystem.
Commenting on the industry’s performance, AEPC chairman Sudhir Sekhri said that despite global uncertainties, Indian apparel exports recorded growth of around 10% in 2024–25. He added that exports in November 2025 increased by 11.3% compared with November 2024 and by 22.1% over November 2023. Cumulative ready-made garment exports during April–November 2025–26 stood at US $ 10.08 billion, indicating sustained momentum despite global headwinds.
AEPC secretary general Mithileshwar Thakur said the award winners reflect the sector’s progress in adopting new technologies, strengthening design capabilities and modernising manufacturing practices, which have enhanced India’s competitiveness and helped build a future-ready ecosystem. He also noted that the industry’s shift towards sustainability, including greener supply chains and ethical sourcing, is reinforcing a responsible and globally respected Brand India.
