The global demand for ethically produced garments has been growing and this has pushed textile players in India to adopt more eco-friendly measures. Environment, social and economic factors are also driving the need to develop relevant skills, said JD Giri, Director at Shahi Exports.
Such skill development is gaining momentum as globally, players are looking at using sustainable materials, reducing water usage and minimising waste. “This trend reflects not just a shift in consumer preferences but is also an essential factor for the country’s economic and social advancement,” he said, pointing out that the textile industry employs around 45 million people and indirectly supports another 110 million.
It is essential that the textile industry invest in programmes that provide training and certification in sustainable practices, he said. For this, a coordinated effort is necessary from the industry leaders, educational institutions and the government. “Industry partnerships play a critical role in ensuring that training programmes are aligned with the latest sustainable practices, such as innovative technologies and resource-efficient processes. It’s crucial to establish and fund comprehensive skill development programmes that emphasise sustainable textile production techniques, material sourcing, circularity, and design,” he said. Educational reforms are also necessary to integrate sustainable textile practices into the curriculum of vocational and technical education institutions. Investing in infrastructure and facilities that support such textile production, like research and development centers and common facilities for small-scale producers, is another important step.
Shahi Export has already established the Industry 4.0 Chair in NIFT Delhi, said the director.
“At Shahi, we’ve leveraged technology to bridge gaps in traditional training methods through the integration of digital learning platforms and virtual training modules. These tools not only streamline the learning process but also allow us to reach a broader audience, particularly in remote and underserved areas,” he said.
Furthermore, technology facilitates the development of advanced training materials and simulation tools that can provide hands-on practice in a controlled environment. This enhances the learning experience and ensures that workers acquire the precise skills needed in the evolving industry, he said.
One of the key challenges in skilling the youth is aligning the skill sets of potential workers with the rapidly evolving needs of the industry. The fast-paced evolution of textile technologies and processes demands continuous upgrades to training programmes, he said. “Educational and vocational institutions are working diligently to address this, but the dynamic nature of the industry often necessitates further collaboration to ensure that training aligns with current demands.”
A vital aspect is expanding access to quality training resources, particularly in rural areas. Giri stated that while progress is being made, increasing access to training infrastructure remains a priority to bridge the skills gap and empower more young people with the opportunities they need. “Highly skilled and motivated trainers are the need of the hour. Dedicated and concerted efforts must create and sustain a pool of such trainers,” he said.
Another challenge is the integration of soft skills and life skills into technical training. While technical proficiency in textiles is crucial, soft skills such as communication, time management and financial literacy are equally important for successful employment and career growth. “Skill is the hard currency, and we need to build a strong skill reserve for India’s advancement to the position of the third-largest economy in the world,” he added.
