The PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) successfully convened a crucial conference, “The Future of Textiles: Challenges and Opportunities in Man–Made Fibres,” at PHD House, New Delhi. The event brought together a distinguished gathering of industry pioneers, policymakers, and stakeholders to strategically address the evolving landscape and immense potential within the man–made fibre (MMF) sector, a cornerstone for the future of the textile industry.
The conference commenced with a welcome address by Mr. Madhu Sudhan Bhageria, Chair of the PHDCCI Textile Committee and CMD of Filatex India Ltd. He emphasized the critical need for a resilient and sustainable fibre ecosystem, highlighting the global dominance of China in polyester production and urging India to adopt a cohesive and forward-thinking strategy to enhance its MMF capabilities.
Mr. Ashok Malhotra, Mission Director of the National Technical Textile Mission (NTTM), graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour and delivered the keynote address. He underscored the urgent imperative for India to accelerate its growth in MMF, aiming for a significant increase in market penetration to achieve global competitiveness. Mr. Malhotra also shed light on India’s potential in technical textiles and NTTM’s initiatives to foster indigenous manufacturing and explore advanced applications, while also recognizing India’s emerging strengths in niche export markets.
Key industry perspectives were shared by Mr. Sanjay Sharma, President & COO of BMD Private Limited, who discussed the complexities of the current global market characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity (VUCA). Mr. Rajeev Gupta, Joint Managing Director of RSWM Ltd., delivered a compelling address on the growing dominance of MMFs globally and emphasized India’s potential to significantly increase its MMF fibre base to meet ambitious export targets, stressing the importance of aligning private sector innovation with government support schemes.
Mr. Jitender Kumar Gupta, Head – TXD & Scientist – E at the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Government of India, highlighted the crucial role of standardization and Quality Control Orders (QCOs) in ensuring the quality and compliance of MMFs and yarns, emphasizing the importance of the BIS Standard Mark.
The conference also featured insightful presentations from other leading experts, including Mr. Prashant Agarwal (Wazir Advisors), Mr. Raman Dutta (Brands & Sourcing Leaders Association), Mr. Yatee Gupta (Fabiosys Innovations Pvt. Ltd.), Mr. Arpan B. Kharva (Textile Engineering Scholar), Mr. Sudhir K. Verma (KNIT EXPERTS INDIA), Ms. Ruma Kinger (Waste2Wear Private Limited), and Mr. Abrar Ahmad (SYAAHI Uniforms), covering various aspects of the MMF value chain, innovation, and sustainability.
Mr. Naveen Seth, DSG, PHDCCI, delivered the theme address, and Mr. Rakesh Sangrai, Director, PHDCCI, adeptly moderated the inaugural and technical sessions. The conference witnessed active participation from over 80 delegates who engaged in dynamic discussions and knowledge sharing with the esteemed speakers.
The PHDCCI‘s Conference on the Future of Textiles: Challenges and Opportunities in Man–Made Fibres served as a vital platform for critical dialogue and collaboration, paving the way for strategic advancements and sustainable growth in India’s MMF sector and reinforcing its position in the global textile arena.
