Union Textile Minister Giriraj Singh Visits NIFT Mumbai, Interacts with Students and Inaugurates Bunakar Seva Kendra Facility
Textiles Minister discusses innovation, sustainability and emerging technologies with NIFT students during Mumbai campus visit
The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Mumbai, hosted Shri Giriraj Singh, Hon’ble Union Minister of Textiles, Government of India, on 22 August 2026. He was accompanied by Dr. M. Beena, IAS, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), and Ms. Vrunda Manohar Desai, IRS, Textile Commissioner.
Established in 1986 and granted statutory status through an Act of Parliament in 2006, NIFT has been involved in developing professional leadership for the textile, apparel, fashion and allied sectors while serving as a knowledge partner to the Central and State Governments.
The programme began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp, followed by the formal welcome and felicitation of the visiting dignitaries.
Director Highlights Importance of Student Interaction
In his welcome address, Prof. Dr. Ajit Kumar Khare, Director, NIFT Mumbai, emphasized the importance of direct interaction between students and government leaders, helping young designers gain a better understanding of industry developments, policies and emerging opportunities.
Interactive Session with Students
A key part of the visit was an interactive session between Shri Giriraj Singh and students of NIFT Mumbai.
The Hon’ble Union Minister encouraged students to contribute to employment generation, foreign exchange earnings and exports. The discussion covered India's textile and handloom heritage, preservation of traditional knowledge and the creation of contemporary opportunities for artisans and weavers.
The Minister also highlighted the growing significance of sustainability, material innovation, and natural and composite fibers, while referring to the potential of Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain and 3D printing in transforming the textile and fashion sectors. He encouraged students to embrace emerging technologies while building on India's foundations in craft, traditional knowledge and design.
He further encouraged students to combine creativity and innovation with industry and business awareness in order to develop globally competitive skills.
The programme concluded with a Vote of Thanks.
New Bunakar Seva Kendra Facility Inaugurated
During the visit, Shri Giriraj Singh inaugurated the new facility of Bunakar Seva Kendra (Weavers’ Service Centre), Mumbai, located within the NIFT Mumbai Campus, Plot-20, Kharghar.
The inauguration took place in the presence of Dr. M. Beena, IAS, Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Smt. Vrunda Manohar Desai (IRS), Textile Commissioner of India, along with senior officials and stakeholders.
According to the institute, the new facility is intended to strengthen support and services for India's handloom and weaving community.
Visit Focuses on Textile Sector and Student Engagement
The visit provided an opportunity for the NIFT Mumbai community to engage with national leadership while focusing on innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable growth in India's textile and fashion sectors.