The Department of Textile Technology and Fashion Technology at Kumaraguru College of Technology (KCT) successfully hosted a two-day Industry Conclave on Technology-Integrated Textiles and Fashion on March 3rd and 4th, 2024, at the Kumaraguru campus. The event also marked the beginning of the 30th anniversary celebrations of the Department of Textile Technology, established in 1995.
Bridging Academia and Industry
The conclave brought together thought leaders, academicians, industry pioneers, and policymakers to discuss ways to foster innovation, integrate advanced technologies, and develop future-ready professionals. The event featured:
- Five technical sessions
- Two panel discussions
- Five keynote addresses
- Over 30 industry experts sharing valuable insights
Strategic Collaborations & MoUs
A major highlight of the conclave was the signing of four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key organizations:
- Indian Technical Textile Association (ITTA)
- The Textile Association of India (TAI)
- Tamil Nadu Coir Business Development Corporation (TANCOIR)
- Institute for Ecology, Technology and Innovation (OETI)
These collaborations aim to enhance competency building, industry-driven curriculum development, and research initiatives.
Launch of Kumaraguru Centre for Research in Technical Textiles (KC.RTT)
Launch of the Kumaraguru Centre for Research in Technical Textiles (KC.RTT)
A significant milestone of the conclave was the launch of the Kumaraguru Centre for Research in Technical Textiles (KC.RTT), a dedicated hub for research, innovation, and sustainability in technical textiles. This initiative strengthens KCT’s commitment to advancing industry-academia collaboration and fostering the next generation of textile professionals.
Key Addresses by Industry Leaders
Welcome Address – Dr. M. Ezhilarasi, Principal, KCT
Dr. M. Ezhilarasi highlighted the department’s evolution and its contributions to nation-building, innovation, and sustainability. She emphasized India’s position as the 6th largest textile exporter, contributing 2.3% to global trade and employing over 45 million people. She also addressed the growing demand for sustainable solutions, focusing on recycled fibers, biofabrication, and eco-friendly dyeing technologies.
Presidential Address – Shri Shankar Vanavarayar, President, Kumaraguru Institutions
Shri Shankar Vanavarayar emphasized the transformative role of textiles beyond clothing, extending to aerospace, automotive, and healthcare industries. He called for stronger industry-academia collaboration and announced initiatives to celebrate alumni achievements, foster entrepreneurship, and relaunch programs aligned with industry needs.
Special Address – Dr. Sundararaman K.S., Chairman-SIMA & MD, Shiva Texyarn Ltd.
Special Address by Chief Guest Dr Sundararaman K.S., Chairman-SIMA & Managing Director, Shiva Texyarn Limited
Dr. Sundararaman underscored the revolutionary potential of technical textiles, describing them as problem-solving and value-driven innovations. He highlighted the evolution from conventional textiles to advanced applications, citing examples from waterproof breathable fabrics to aerospace materials.
He urged students to embrace technical textiles as a lucrative and impactful career path, noting that brands like Uniqlo and Louis Vuitton have leveraged textile innovation to create high-value products.
Guest of Honour – Shri Avinash Mishra, Chairman, ITTA & CEO, Advanced Material Solutions
Speech of the guest of Honour, Shri Avinash Mishra, Chairman ITTA&CEO Advanced Material Solutions Koshala Profile Private Limited
Shri Avinash Mishra emphasized the rapid growth of India’s technical textiles sector, valued at $23 billion, with an annual growth rate of 8-12%. He stressed the importance of government support through initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) and the pivotal role of ITTA in bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Keynote Address by Dr. K. Selvaraju Secretary General of the Southern India Mills’ Association (SIMA)
Insights from Dr. K. Selvaraju, Secretary General, SIMA
Dr. K. Selvaraju highlighted the need for revitalizing textile education through updated curricula, hands-on training, and stronger industry-academia partnerships. He called for the creation of a National Textile Profession Competency Fund to support skill development and innovation.
Driving Innovation through KC.RTT
The establishment of Kumaraguru Centre for Research in Technical Textiles (KC.RTT) aligns with KCT’s mission to drive innovation and sustainability. The center will focus on:
- Protective Textiles
- Automotive Textiles
- Sports Textiles
- Home Textiles
Key Facilities at KC.RTT:
- Technical Textiles Laboratory (Funded by a ₹2.5 crore grant from NTTM)
- Sustainability Laboratory (Fibre-to-fabric solutions)
- Pilot Manufacturing Plant for non-cotton, natural fibers like jute and hemp
A Step Towards a Sustainable Future
KC.RTT will collaborate with industries, MSMEs, and government bodies to develop industry-driven curricula, provide hands-on training, and address emerging trends such as AI in textiles, mill management, and sustainability.
With this visionary initiative, KCT continues to strengthen India’s position as a leader in the global textile industry, empowering the next generation of textile professionals, innovators, and entrepreneurs.
