According to a senior source within the Textiles Ministry, the launch of the INDIAsize program is in its final stages and is poised for an official introduction shortly. This initiative aims to facilitate the development of standardised clothing sizes tailored to Indian body types, providing a significant opportunity for the domestic sector to cater more accurately to the populace.
Rachna Shah, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, elaborated on the study conducted to ascertain fitting sizes for the Indian market. She expressed optimism about the impending formal launch, emphasising its potential to enable the Indian industry to create apparel better suited to the country’s diverse population.
In addition to the INDIAsize initiative, Shah highlighted the Ministry’s plan to establish a “Centre of Sustainable Fashion Technology.” This centre will be instrumental in fostering research and enhancing capabilities in sustainable practices within the apparel and fashion industry.
Furthermore, insider sources indicated that the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) intends to introduce a new five-year integrated Masters Programme titled Crafting Luxury; Restoration and Curation of Textiles and Fashion; Event and Experience Design starting from the 2024-25 academic session at selected campuses.
Previously announced by the Textiles Ministry, the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for textiles is expected to attract investments exceeding Rs. 19,000 crore over five years. This initiative anticipates achieving a cumulative turnover surpassing Rs.3 lakh crore and generating over 7.5 lakh employment opportunities within the sector, with a notable focus on empowering women and augmenting their engagement in the formal economy, given the predominantly female workforce in the textiles industry.
