Union Textiles Minister Shri Giriraj Singh Visits NIFT Mumbai and Interacts with Students
Issued by Ministry of Textiles
Read or download the official PDF of this gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Textiles on 22nd August 2026. Classified under Press Release.
Executive Summary & Key Takeaways
Executive Summary On August 22, 2026, Union Textiles Minister Shri Giriraj Singh visited the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Mumbai, to engage with students and inaugurate a new facility. The visit centered on merging India’s textile heritage with modern technological advancements to boost employment and exports. Key highlights included an interactive session on industry innovation and the opening of the Bunakar Seva Kendra at the Kharghar campus.
Key Points / Main Content
Student Interaction and Industry Goals
- The Minister encouraged students to focus on employment generation, foreign exchange earnings, and increasing exports.
- Discussions emphasized the preservation of India’s rich handloom heritage and traditional knowledge.
- The Minister highlighted the need to create contemporary opportunities for artisans and weavers through modern design.
Innovation and Emerging Technologies
- Emphasis was placed on the growing importance of sustainability and material innovation, specifically natural and composite fibers.
- The Minister identified Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, and 3D printing as transformative technologies for the textile and fashion sectors.
- Students were urged to combine creativity with business awareness to ensure global competitiveness.
Infrastructure and Support Services
- A new facility for the Bunakar Seva Kendra (Weavers’ Service Centre) was inaugurated within the NIFT Mumbai Campus in Kharghar.
- The facility is designed to provide strengthened support and services to India’s handloom and weaving community.
- The inauguration was attended by the Development Commissioner (Handlooms) and the Textile Commissioner of India.
Impact Analysis
NIFT Mumbai Students Impact: Students receive direct guidance on aligning their creative skills with government policies, emerging technologies, and global market demands. Action Required: Students must embrace emerging technologies like AI and 3D printing while developing skills that balance traditional craft with industry-standard business awareness.
Handloom and Weaving Community Impact: Local artisans and weavers gain better access to institutional support and services through the newly inaugurated Bunakar Seva Kendra. Action Required: Community members should utilize the resources at the new facility to enhance their production capabilities and adapt to contemporary market opportunities.
NIFT Management and Faculty Impact: The institution is positioned as a hub for both high-level design education and direct service to the textile industry. Action Required: Facilitate continued interaction between students and government/industry leaders to ensure the curriculum reflects current industry developments and policies.