CMAI Conclave in Surat Elevates City's Garment Ambitions

The Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) marked a new chapter for Surat’s garment industry with its landmark Garment Conclave, held on July 5 at Avadh Utopia. Jointly organised by CMAI’s Gujarat Regional Office and powered by the Institute of Design and Technology (IDT), this was Surat’s first national-level garment conclave—strategically curated to transform the city from a textile stronghold into a thriving hub for readymade garment production.

The day-long event featured impactful presentations and panel discussions that tackled brand building, AI integration, MSME schemes, and sustainable fashion. Senior officials from Gujarat and Chhattisgarh state governments, along with UN representatives, participated, reflecting high-level interest and support.

The opening session focused on Gujarat’s New Textile Policy, with Shri K.C. Sampat, MD of INDEXTB, affirming government backing for industry expansion. Shri Naresh Babuta of SIDBI highlighted MSME finance efforts, while Billmart introduced digital bill discounting solutions for Surat-based garment businesses.

Industry leaders like Ashish Dixit (ABFRL), Namit Shrivastava (Raymonds), Jitendra Chauhan (Jade Blue), Manohar Chatlani (Soch), Santosh Katariya (Peppermint), Madhukar Sharma (Pantaloons), and Deepak Ahuja (Westside) showcased garments made from Surat fabrics and expressed strong interest in collaborations with local manufacturers. Designer Nivedita Saboo highlighted her positive experiences sourcing from Surat, noting its vast potential.

Two significant sessions—on Sustainability and Artificial Intelligence—garnered intense interest. UN’s Ms. Radhika Kaul Batra and Dr. Pankaj Kumar emphasized global sustainable practices, while Parvinder from GATS provided real-world insights. FYND’s session on AI integration in fashion manufacturing drew strong engagement.

CMAI President Santosh Katariya stated, “Surat is emerging as a key garmenting centre with an integrated supply chain and strong infrastructure. Global brands are increasingly taking note, positioning Surat as a preferred manufacturing destination.”

Naveen Sainani, Hon. Gen. Secretary of CMAI, emphasized that sustainability is not optional but a strategic imperative. He spotlighted CMAI’s SU.RE initiative promoting responsible manufacturing.

Dr. Ajoy Bhattacharya, Chairman of CMAI’s Gujarat Regional Committee, celebrated the overwhelming industry response. Over 450 participants attended, and he credited the success to the dedicated efforts of Mayur Golwala, Vishal Paheriwal, Vikas Agarwal, and Anupam Goyal.

The day concluded with Fashionova 2025, a high-energy fashion showcase by IDT students focused on sustainable fashion. The show included a standout sequence inspired by “Operation Sindoor,” further amplifying the event’s social impact. IDT also managed full execution support for the conclave.

This successful conclave firmly places Surat on the national radar as not only a textile capital but also a rising force in India’s readymade garment industry.