The program started with the lighting of the lamp and welcome by Mr. Sandeep Singh. Chief Guest, Mr. Kamal Tulsian (Former President, South Gujarat Textile Processors Association, SGTPA) graced the event briefly.
Special Guest, Mr. Vatsal Naik (Chairman, South Gujarat Chemical Manufacturers Association, SGCMA, Convener & Managing Director, Mahavir Synthesis Private Limited) set the theme of the Seminar, briefing the gathering of over hundred participants from the textile industry. He mentioned the Textile Industry in Surat as a major centre, has catered to major textile requirements for long. Surat can emerge as a vibrant textile business hub if there is a shift in the mindset on cost cutting by textile manufacturers to expanding technical base. It is now, time to focus on meeting international standards and environmental considerations. He stressed the need for diversification and value addition according to the changing needs and trends.
The Keynote Address was delivered by Mr. K. K. Mishra (Director & C.O.O. Wool Research Association, WRA). He stressed on the need for a paradigm shift in the textile industry. New fibres, new fabrics, new finishing and technology are needed. Change in fibre will make differentiation, quality deviation in the fabric, which can be aesthetically good, and technically better. It is important to identify what change is required and the need, to develop prototypes that are within the purview and feasibility. He was supported by Mr. Shishir Tyagi, Deputy Director, WRA who gave a detailed presentation on the role of fibres and finishes in the production of light weight, hi-tech fabrics for sportswear. He also gave a brief on the research and prototype capabilities and testing facilities at Centre of Excellence in Sportech.
The Panel Discussion was moderated by Mr. Anjani Kumar Prasad (Managing Director, ARCHROMA INDIA PVT.LTD). He started the discussion in the backdrop of the current impact of the geopolitical situation, the need for the textile industry to take the opportunity that is offered in activewear. Activewear is one area that requires the use of polyester and blends with other fibres for physiological enhancement by taking care of comfort, resistance to heat, and other properties.
Mr. Anil Narkhede (Head Technical Sales, B R SPECIALITIES LLP) spoke on the best use of wool as a sustainable fibre and blending wool for sportswear. Surat, he pointed has the right setup and it is the right time to get into sportswear.
Mr. VR Sai Ganesh (C.O.O. – Textiles, ZYDEX INDUSTRIES, Vadodara) spoke on the finishes that can complement the fibres. Business is important, but more than that antimicrobial, anti- odour, comfort, use of less water and less energy in processing is what needs to be looked into. Mr. Anjani Prasad added that activewear, as a part of technical textiles, must also have dust release, soil release, hygiene protection which are important. So, along with functionality the design aspect element also plays an important role.
Mr. Saji Jose (Technical Director, OM TEX CHEM PVT. LTD.) brought forth the benefits of Silicones. Improving the wicking and spreading property, easy-to-wear, adjustability, handle, faster heat dissipation, antimicrobial, UV protection for outdoor wear other than strength, durability and comfort. He listed the advantages of silicones (amines) for softness, block silicones for imparting anti-static and improve fastness. He also mentioned other silicones that can help spreading and defoaming. New improvements in silicone formulations to overcome yellowing and hydrophobicity of fibres were presented.
Mr. Elliyas Mohammad DGM – Business Development, Disperse dyes, COLOURTEX INDUSTRIES PVT.LTD) gave a detailed account on the use disperse dyes on 1.5 or 2 denier microfilaments for sportswear. The higher percentage of Spandex in the blend has given rise to dye migration due to heat. Spandex has a greater affinity for the dye as compared to polyester, but it leaches out in washing and wet fastness. He introduced the use of first- generation and second-generation high wash fastness dyes which can be used in sportwear.
Mr. Amin Khoja (DGM – Business Development Reactive Dyes, COLOURTEX INDUSTRIES PVT.LTD.) stressed the need and importance of dye selection for fibres in sportswear. He observed that more of cotton is being used in Surat. The major sustainability concerns of dyeing with reactive dyes were on reducing electrolytes, fixation, RSL and waste water requirements, etc.
The Green Peace Detox Campaign has led 29 Brands who have committed to the sustainability goals. Each of the brands have specific requirements, dyes as one. Ecology report will soon become a mandatory requirement. Mr. Narkhede added that energy saving, effluent load, moisture regain and achieving dryness faster will be important considerations. Mr. Sai Ganesh suggested the use of Bio-polymers used in waterproofing use of chemical free cotton farming. As the growth trends towards athleisure, importance on textiles that is comfortable worn next to the skin, softness, anti-microbial properties, and water-based dyes become important.
The speakers pressed the importance of the Industry at Surat being ready with infrastructure, focus on detox and not on cost-cutting measures. Mr. Sai Ganesh stressed that being sustainable will not be a requirement but an order. On this note, Mr. Saji Jose added that there is a need to look at fibres other than Polyester, Aramid and new fibres. Mr. Amin Khoja expressed that a change in mindset will change models in Surat Industry. More units need to think of end products and end product-mix. Mr. Ellyas Mohamad emphasized the need to switch gears in dyeing and processing. Even a small change can make a difference!
Mr. Anjani Prasad concluded the panel discussion stressing the need for the textile industry to look at the value chain of active wear, improving the capabilities within Surat. This will avoid movement of goods and save energy and water. There is a need to be sustainable from the start and in every aspect of production of sportswear, sports goods, and accessories, colour fastness, processing, sewing, garmenting…..Surat can take the lead in developing a cluster being so resourceful.
Mr. Sangramsing Salunkhe(Product Line Manager, B R SPECIALITIES LLP) highlighted the future direction in sportswear and the requirements that will need properties like Inherent FR, Waterproof, Water-repellent, Waterless technologies, chemically intelligent, efficient and sustainable textiles.
The Sponsors were felicitated for their generous support offered towards the event. The Vote of thanks was proposed by Dr. Suman Mundkur extending our deep gratitude to the sponsors, speakers, audience and organizing team. The programme ended with high tea, networking and reconnecting after a long time in an in-person Seminar.
– On behalf SDC EC India Dr. Vishaka Karnad
Hon. Secretary, SDC EC India
