Giriraj Singh Visits NIFT Mumbai in Kharghar, Inaugurates Weavers Centre

Union Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh visited the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Mumbai campus in Kharghar on Saturday, where he interacted with students and inaugurated a new facility for the handloom community.

Singh was accompanied on the visit by Dr M Beena, IAS, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), and Vrunda Manohar Desai, IRS, Textile Commissioner.

During his interaction with students, Singh urged them to contribute to employment generation, boost exports and foreign exchange earnings, and help take India's textile and handloom heritage to international markets. The discussions focused on preserving traditional knowledge while creating modern opportunities for weavers and artisans.

Singh also highlighted the growing importance of sustainability, material innovation, and the use of natural and composite fibres. He emphasised the role of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and 3D printing, in transforming the fashion and textile sectors, encouraging students to combine creative skills with business understanding.

During the visit, the minister inaugurated the new facility of the Bunakar Seva Kendra (Weavers’ Service Centre), Mumbai, situated on the NIFT campus at Plot 20 in Kharghar. The centre is aimed at strengthening support and services for weavers and the handloom sector.

NIFT Mumbai Director Prof Dr Ajit Kumar Khare noted that the direct interaction between government leaders and students provides young designers with valuable insight into industry trends, emerging opportunities, and government policies.