Indian Fashion Leads Global Shift Toward Sustainability & Slow Design: MoS Textiles

Mumbai, Oct 16 (KNN) Minister of State for External Affairs and Textiles, Pabitra Margherita, on Wednesday said that Indian design is emerging as one of the most exciting on the global stage, driven by a fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary sensibilities.

Addressing students at the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) during a convocation ceremony in Navi Mumbai, the Minister said the global focus in fashion is shifting towards sustainability, circularity, ethical production, and slow design, led largely by the younger generation. 

“There is a renewed pride in rediscovering India’s textile heritage — from natural dyeing and hand weaving to recycling and zero-waste tailoring. The fusion of traditional skills with global sensibilities is making Indian design one of the most exciting in the world today,” he said.

Highlighting India’s leadership in the handloom and craft sector, Margherita noted that the country remains unique in retaining a large artisan workforce. 

“India is the only country where about 10 million people are directly associated with handloom and handicrafts,” he said, adding that most developed nations have transitioned fully to mechanised production.

The Minister, who has visited textile clusters and design institutes across 31 countries, said he takes pride in India’s ability to combine innovation with heritage, positioning the nation as a leader in creative and sustainable design. 

During the event, Margherita also inaugurated new academic facilities at NIFT’s Kharghar campus, including Academic Buildings I, II, and III, and a multi-purpose hall. 

The upgraded 8,352-square-metre complex features modern classrooms, advanced laboratories, a multipurpose venue, and a 500-seat auditorium, designed to foster creativity and academic excellence among students and faculty.

(KNN Bureau)