Bharat Tex 2024 is a mega celebration of textile, trade, technology and tradition
Celebrating the seamless fusion of culture and business and honouring the intricate legacy that defines India, Bharat Tex 2024 is scheduled from February 26-29 in New Delhi. The event promises to be a tapestry of tradition and technology attracting the best and the brightest from the textile world. Ahead of the event, Fibre2Fashion speaks to Chairman Narendra Goenka to understand more about the event and its implications for the Indian textile sector.
As the chairman of Bharat Tex 2024, what is your vision for the event, and how do you see it impacting the global textile industry?
Bharat Tex 2024 is a celebration of Prime Minister’s 5F vision – Farm to Fibre to Factory to Fashion to Foreign. My vision is simple yet profound: to showcase India’s rich textile journey, emphasising sustainability and innovation intertwined with the 5F vision. We are uniting the entire value chain, creating a platform where farmers, artisans, and fashion enthusiasts collaborate. This synergistic approach does not just transform our local industry; it resonates globally. Imagine a world where responsible sourcing and cutting-edge design meet – that is the impact we are aiming for.
The industry’s excitement is palpable; we are not just exhibiting fabrics, but the essence of India’s textile heritage and its forward-looking future.
With sustainability being a key theme at Bharat Tex 2024, how is it going to contribute towards making the Indian textile-apparel industry environmentally friendly?
Appreciating the increasing focus of most of the garment importing countries on ESG compliance, Indian players across the textile value chain have been working towards this compliance with the support from AEPC under the umbrella of ESG taskforce created by the Ministry of Textiles. In this scenario, Bharat Tex would contribute in multiple ways: one by giving visibility to sustainable companies at the global platform; two through knowledge sessions inviting expert speakers across the globe extending cost effective solutions on resource efficiency, renewable energy, water and waste management, chemical management, newly developed waterless dyeing techniques, emerging eco-friendly sustainable materials, emerging technologies to reduce pre- and post-consumer waste promoting circularity etc would act as learning for the industry players making them more environmentally friendly; and finally showcasing the products from local artisans, handmade, usage of organic dyes and sustainable fabrics etc aiming towards minimising our environmental footprint, which would not only create a strong brand image of India on environmental compliance but also on social compliance via efforts during Bharat Tex on showcasing traditional and rural craftsmanship and women empowerment.
What innovative practices or technologies in textile manufacturing are likely to be showcased at Bharat Tex 2024?
Visitors can expect a vibrant showcase ranging from sustainable fabric production methods to advanced dyeing techniques. We will explore innovations like smart textiles enhancing functionality and eco-friendly materials reflecting a commitment to greener practices. Product categories will span across sustainable fashion, tech-infused fabrics, and materials promoting circular economy ideals. We are happy to announce to the world that India has come up with its own Kasturi cotton which certifies it being indigenous through a blockchain traceability system. We have technical textiles, home textiles, apparel & garments, handicrafts, carpets, and lots more to showcase combining both the venues of Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi, New Delhi.
How does Bharat Tex 2024 aim to address the challenges and opportunities in building resilient global supply chains, especially post-pandemic?
Indian textile industry like many others, felt the ripples of the pandemic. Bharat Tex 2024 takes a forward step by focusing on resilient global supply chains that envision a seamless flow from raw materials to finished products, minimising the disruptions. Now, the Textiles Ministry’s emphasis on resilience echoes the vision of Bharat Tex 2024. Take the adoption of technology; it streamlines processes, ensuring smoother operations even during challenging times. Bharat Tex 2024 aims to showcase such innovations, creating a future-ready textile sector resilient to uncertainties. It is about collaboration, adaptability, and a shared commitment to weaving a stronger, global fabric.
Digitisation is a major theme at the event. Can you share some insights into how digital technologies are transforming the textile industry?
Yes, Bharat Tex is showcasing growing engagement of technology in various production functions across the textile value chain in India. To begin with, potential of big data analytics led MES (Manufacturing Execution Systems) solutions, Artificial Intelligence, and Internet of Things (IoT) have been well realised in the world by now. Data analytics in solutions like ProX4.0 ensures real-time access to factory processes, from sampling, cutting, and sewing to floor management and shipment of orders, with foolproof monitoring. Further use of Fibercoins which are “digital block chain-based tokens” that can be managed by different manufacturers at different levels of production chain are new thing under discussion. With Fibercoins, details of any asset like fibre, filament, fabric, yarn or garment can be digitised. Data of any type of end usable garment made using this technology will be available in the fingertips of the customers. Cryptotags have also been used by several companies that is printed on the finished garment. The tag contains tiny particles arranged in random ways which is unique for every garment and the information in this tool can be decoded using image reading technique.
At Bharat Tex 2024, we are diving into the digital era headfirst. Visitors can witness how tech is redefining design, production, and sustainability. From AI-driven pattern innovations to eco-friendly dyeing processes, the expo will be a showcase of brilliance. Interactive fabric displays, 3D printing marvels, sustainable sourcing solutions and lots more. It is not just an exhibition; it is a glimpse into the future of textiles. By 2030 and 2047, Indian apparel manufacturers should also pin down the strategy of their next big technological investments, towards the evolution of ‘Apparel 4.0’.
Bharat Tex 2024 celebrates India’s rich textile heritage. How do you balance this heritage with the need for modernisation in the industry?
Bharat Tex 2024 is a jubilant ode to India’s textile legacy, and I believe that marrying tradition with modernisation is imperative for the industry as well as such a massive platform like Bharat Tex 2024. It is a blend of heritage and progress where neither outshines the other. Take, for instance, the timeless art of Banarasi weaving meeting cutting-edge sustainable practices. Another harmony is found in handloom Kalamkari designs embracing digital innovations. This synergy does not drown tradition; instead, it elevates it. Additionally, I would like to mention here about our esteemed State partner Uttar Pradesh and Supporting Partner State Madhya Pradesh, as the spotlight will gracefully shift between their traditional textile marvels and contemporary strides.
Could you elaborate on the role of G2G and B2B meetings at Bharat Tex 2024 in fostering international collaborations?
These interactions provide a unique platform for policymakers, industry leaders, and businesses to align strategies and explore synergies. By facilitating direct discussions, we aim to strengthen ties, share expertise, and create avenues for growth in the Indian textile sector. Imagine an Indian manufacturer collaborating with a foreign counterpart to enhance production techniques or a joint venture opening new markets—these meetings are catalysts for such transformative partnerships, ultimately benefiting both India’s textile landscape and the global textile industry. I think Bharat Tex 2024 will function as the first-of-its-kind platform that will give a tangible boost to the vibrant Indian textile landscape. Bharat Tex 2024 is where ideas will turn into partnerships, and innovations will find their market – an essential synergy for the growth of our industry.
What initiatives at Bharat Tex 2024 are planned for skills development and education in the textile sector?
Bharat Tex encompasses around 40+ knowledge sessions across contemporary issues in the textile and apparel space revolving around sustainability, fabric innovations, product development, market intelligence, smart manufacturing etc delivered via panel discussions from veteran speakers across the globe. This would extend a great learning experience and enhance skill set of Indian manufacturers. Bharat Tex is also extending platform for mutual collaborations between domestic and international design schools, giving wide exposure to young designers catering to building up of a strong market driven futuristic skill to the Indian garment industry.
How will Bharat Tex 2024 be different from other textile industry fairs that happen, especially in Europe and China?
It is the soul of our textiles, echoing the rich history of Indian craftsmanship. We are drawing global attention by showcasing sustainability practices, empowering local artisans, and fostering collaborative growth. Attendees witness first-hand the convergence of tradition and modernity, creating an indelible mark in their memories. Bharat Tex 2024 is not just an event; it is a celebration of the timeless artistry in every thread of India’s textile story. It is an experience where culture meets commerce, making memories that transcend typical trade fair encounters.
The Indian government has come out with PM MITRA parks, PLI scheme, Samarth, National Technical Textiles Mission, and now Bharat Tex 2024. What is your opinion about supportive policy ecosystem for manufacturing and exports?
I believe these initiatives form a robust backbone for our textile industry. PM MITRA parks facilitate efficient infrastructure, while the PLI scheme encourages investment, driving growth. Samarth and National Technical Textiles Mission focus on skill development and innovation, ensuring our workforce stays competitive. Bharat Tex 2024, our latest endeavour, aims to showcase our capabilities globally. Together, they create an ecosystem that fosters manufacturing and exports. For instance, PLI incentivises production, leading to increased exports. The initiatives collectively elevate our industry, making it more sustainable and globally competitive. The purpose is clear – to enhance competitiveness, promote innovation, and propel the industry forward. Over the last 10 years, the Textiles Ministry has been a steady supporter, offering incentives and avenues for growth. Textile players stand to benefit by leveraging these initiatives, ensuring sustained progress and a brighter future for the Indian textile sector.
