The Apparel Made-Ups & Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council (AMHSSC), in partnership with bluesign®, is proud to introduce the “Foundation to Apparel Sustainability” eLearning course. The launch event, hosted at Taj Lands’ End in Mumbai, marks a significant advancement in promoting sustainability and ethical practices within India’s textile and apparel sector.
India’s textile and apparel industry is a vital part of the national economy, accounting for approximately 2% of GDP and 18% of manufacturing output. The sector employs 45 million people directly and supports another 60 million in related industries. As the world’s 5th largest exporter, India’s role highlights the pressing need for sustainable development within this sector.
The event featured distinguished industry leaders including Shri Premal Udani, Director-Board of Directors, AMHSSC, Managing Director, Kaytee Corporation (P) Ltd; Shri Vijaykumar Jamnadhar Agarwal, Director-Board of Directors, AMHSSC, Director & Member, Creative Garments Pvt. Ltd; Shri Rajesh Masand, Director-Board of Directors, AMHSSC, President, Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI); Padma Shri Dr. A Sakthivel, Chairman AMHSSC; and Ms. Katharina Verena Mayer, Director Customer Relations bluesign technologies. The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, representing a dedication to a sustainable future.
The Foundation to Apparel Sustainability Course, developed by bluesign® academy in collaboration with AMHSSC, will commence in September 2024. Delivered through an online module format over eight weeks, the course will feature one e-learning session each week.
It aims to provide an in-depth exploration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) aspects in the textile industry, with a particular focus on the Indian market. This course supports India’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2070, as pledged by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, by equipping industry leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable practices.
The course is designed to offer practical knowledge that participants can directly apply within manufacturing units. Tailored for senior and middle management in the apparel industry, it empowers these leaders to drive responsible change and support India’s emergence as a global leader in sustainability.
Topics covered include an introduction to sustainable fashion, a historical perspective of the fashion industry, sustainable fibers, eco-friendly textile processes, impact and footprint assessment, chemical management and hazard assessment, social and ethical aspects in apparel sustainability, and sustainability reporting.
Padma Shri Dr. A Sakthivel, Chairman AMHSSC, commented, “Mumbai’s dynamic and influential textile industry is perfectly positioned to lead the way in sustainable practices. This course will equip our professionals with the tools needed to innovate responsibly.”
Ms. Katharina Verena Mayer, Director Customer Relations bluesign technologies, said, “The launch of this course in Mumbai is a critical step towards embedding sustainability into the heart of India’s textile industry. We’re excited to see the positive impact it will have.”
Shri Vijaykumar Jamnadhar Agarwal, Director & Member, Creative Garments Pvt Ltd, emphasized the crucial role of ESG in the Home Textile Industry during his speech. Highlighting India’s significant 7% share in the global Home Textile Industry, he noted the country’s rich textile history and its world-class recognition for catering to niche segments and brands worldwide.
Agarwal underscored the importance of recycled textiles, organic cotton, extended trade responsibilities, and the need to comply with carbon regulations to ensure seamless trade. He also expressed optimism about a shift in the global supply chain due to developing ESG norms, which he believes will position India as a global production hub.
Shri Rajesh Masand, President of the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI), and Director on the Board of AMHSSC, provided insights from the perspective of domestic apparel manufacturers.
He noted that even domestic brands such as Shoppers Stop and Landmark are increasingly sourcing from suppliers and vendors who are more compliant with environmental, social, and governance standards. Masand emphasized that now is the right time for the domestic industry to adapt to these evolving changes, implement necessary improvements, and ensure factory compliance.
Shri Premal Udani, Managing Director of Kaytee Corporation (P) Ltd, and Director on the Board of AMHSSC, highlighted India’s pride in meeting quality deliveries in the Apparel Sector. He stated that India is now gearing up to become a leader in ESG compliance, aiming to become a shining beacon in every aspect of social compliance.
This initiative sets new benchmarks for responsible business conduct in India’s textile and apparel sector, aligning with international standards and growing consumer demands for ethical and sustainable products. In Mumbai, the course aims to transform local industry practices, promoting sustainability and enhancing competitiveness in the bustling economic hub.
