NIFT Emerges as Key Economic Driver for Textile Sector

The two-day NIFT International Conference 2026, titled “Design for Inclusive Futures”, successfully concluded on 22 January 2026 at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Mumbai campus. The two day international conference marks a significant milestone as it coincides with the completion of four decades of NIFT’s contributions to fashion education, design innovation, sustainability and industry engagement in the country. The day witnessed a plenary session addressed by .Giriraj Singh, Union Minister of Textiles.

Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister stated that NIFT has emerged as a key economic driver for India’s textile and craft sectors, with each graduate supporting an estimated 8,000 to 10,000 jobs over their lifetime. He noted that India is moving away from reliance on foreign benchmarks and is developing its own standards through indigenous initiatives such as IndiaSize and VisionNxt, in line with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat by strengthening India-specific design forecasting and identity.

The inaugural session was graced by Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, Tanu Kashyap, Director General, NIFT, Prof. (Dr.) Noopur Anand, Dean, NIFT; Prof. (Dr.) Ajit Kumar Khare, Director, NIFT Mumbai; Prof. (Dr.) Sudha Dhingra, NIFT and Director, Centre of Excellence for Khadi; and Prof. (Dr.) Rupa Agarwal, Conference Chair.

Addressing the gathering, the Secretary, Ministry of Textiles highlighted the role of design in national development and appreciated NIFT’s initiatives such as VisionNxt, IndiaSize, and curriculum restructuring. She underlined NIFT’s contribution to the Prime Minister’s 5F Vision—Farm to Fibre,(updated on 22nd january 2026)