03 May 2023, Mumbai 

India has a long history with textiles that dates back to more than 5000 BC. Archaeological evidence shows that we had a wealth of resources and were at the forefront of supplying the finest textile items to the rest of the globe. Because it is the second-largest sector offering employment opportunities in both organized and unorganized sectors, this sector must be addressed.

What all you need to know

About 51 million people are employed directly, and 68 million are used indirectly by the textile industry. Two significant segments make up the textile industry. First, the unorganized sector includes handicrafts, sericulture, and handloom, all conducted on a modest scale using conventional equipment and techniques.

From Fiber to Fashion

A sector that is making an important transition to sustainability in terms of processing and raw materials. The second is the organized sector, which includes the spinning, clothing, and garments segments and uses modern equipment and methods, including economies of scale.

Innovative value-added fiber with unique features enabling magnificent drape, matt sheen, and lightweight that can be easily blended with other fibers, e.g. be it silk or cotton.

Diversity

With a vast range of textiles, techniques, and colors that reflect the various ethnic groups and cultural traditions found throughout the nation, the Indian textile business showcases the country's rich cultural legacy.

One of India's oldest industries, it spans a wide range of segments, from capital and technology-intensive organized segments on one end to hand-woven/hand-spun, unorganized details on the other. India is the second-biggest producer of silk and cotton worldwide and the most significant producer of jute.

The performance of the Indian textile and apparel industry today, as well as government initiatives and the sector's prospects, are examined in this article.

How Fabric Innovation is Paving the Way

Fabric innovation is revolutionizing the apparel industry by introducing sustainable, high-performance materials. Innovations like recycled polyester, bio-based materials, and biodegradable fabrics check the industry's carbon footprint while improving product durability and comfort.

The Next Wave of Fashion; Technical advancements like 3D printing and smart fabrics are also used to enhance production processes and create new, innovative designs. The future of fashion lies in eco-friendly, innovative fabrics that prioritize/balance both sustainability and functionality.

Making a case for 'Organic cotton' that is supposed to be a 100% natural and biodegradable material for brands having gone down on the brand's sustainability journey.

A New point of materials; dedicated to eco-responsible innovations in terms of technologies, applications, materials, and machines.

The Power of the Indian textile industry

India has one of the largest textile industries worldwide, with a sizable raw materials base and textile manufacture. Along with other essential industries, the manufacturing and trade of textiles play a significant role in our economy. The export of textiles and apparel accounts for about 27% of total foreign exchange earnings.

The textile and apparel industry contributes about 14% of industrial production and 3% of the nation's GDP. The textile sector contributes about 8% of the total excise taxes collected so much so that the textile industry is responsible for up to 21% of all employment created in the economy.

Enormous employment generator

The manufacturing of textiles directly employs around 35 million people. Another 60 million people could be used indirectly, including the workforce involved in trade and handling for producing agriculturally based raw materials like cotton.

Only the fabric's visual appeal, aesthetics, and wearability, as well as its durability, utility, and style, are essential to the consumer. The functional properties of the fabric for garment production and the cost of producing a garment are of concern to the clothing maker.

If the clothing manufacturer is a job worker or a manufacturer who sells clothing to consumers directly or indirectly, he will be concerned with all of the consumer values.

If the clothing producer is a contractor, then all that matters to him is the cost of production. In the case of a fabric maker, he is worried about the quality of the garment production work.

Importance of the raw materials

The primary raw material used to make clothing is fabric. Selecting the suitable fabric is a crucial step in the creation of clothing. The Fabric of Change; The quality of the fabric affects both the garment's quality and how simple it is to create a shell structure out of flat material. The hardest difficulty for the makers is choosing the proper kind of cloth for a specific garment.

The performance demonstrability of the latest trends in fabric development for the functional textile industry is all about the topical issue of current innovations in high-performance fabrics.

The functional fabrics segment is sustainably committed to mitigating & minimize the CO2 emissions for this type of fabric used in the apparel/clothing industry to define & re-imagine the Fashion industry's future.

Revolutionizing the Indian Apparel Industry

Therefore, it's crucial to comprehend how fabric characteristics impact the production process and the quality of the finished product. Overall, the poly-cotton fabric (PCF) market is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for breathable, durable, comfortable, and affordable clothing/cost-effective apparel/clothing.

Fabric Innovation is Changing the Face of the Fashion Industry; Traditionally, PCF is supposed to be a product blending typically natural cotton and synthetic polyester and can have a harmonious blend of something as a ballpark 65% cotton & 35% polyester albeit, there is no such sacrosanct & the mix is supposed to keep changing for varied types of the product spectrum.

Setting the proper fabric quality is a crucial component of range construction. It will be costly if the rate is set too high and textiles that can represent at least 50% of the total cost of the garment are used.

Lowering the bar too much means you risk receiving many complaints and losing customers.

How Green Products are Reshaping the Apparel Industry

From Sustainable Materials to Smart Fabrics; Most simplistically sustainability strategy stems from the quest to re-wire, re-think & reimagine businesses for a “greener product” resting on the principles of imaginative/innovative fabrics/raw material and technologies enabling businesses to sustainably derive meaningful gains in the realms of economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

Latest Textile Events

 29 April 2023, Mumbai 

India's legacy craftsmanship has contributed immensely to the world of luxury, but it has not always received the recognition it deserves.

However, this is changing as Indian Craftsmanship Takes Center Stage with acclaimed studios and designers showcasing their work on international platforms for High-End Products to leave a lasting Impression.

What all you need to know

India's Artisans Gain International Recognition

Mumbai-based Chanakya International is a renowned export house of hand-embroidered pieces/India's Ateliers that have collaborated with Christian Dior on several projects.

Chanakya's creative director, Karishma Swali, led a project that translated artworks by the Delhi-based couple Manu and Madhvi Parekh into embroidered installations for Dior's Haute Couture Spring/Summer 2022 show at Paris' Musée Rodin.

Indian Designers Make Waves

Furthermore, Dior outsources much of its surface ornamentation and embroidery for its women's wear, bags, and shoes to an atelier in India, and this contribution has often been under the radar.

However, luxury brands have started to acknowledge the valuable contribution of Indian craftsmanship. The growing middle class in India's successful economy has made designer shoes, bags, and frocks more accessible.

European labels such as Dior are smartly assessing the future of luxury shifting towards the East and paying a long-overdue homage to those who put together exquisite perfection that shone the glory of European haute couture and luxury.

Risk maturity

Indian craftsmanship has often been unfairly spoken about as being "too kitschy," but designer Rahul Mishra points out that a significant portion of the international luxury industry's supply chain has always been outsourced to India. Craftsmen struggle to prove their worth and gain acknowledgment in the industry despite their valuable contributions hard work and diligence.

Indian Craftsmanship Acknowledged European luxury brands have worked hard to preserve the snob value and symbolism associated with being a "Made in Europe" brand, but fashion insiders are calling the showcasing of Indian craftsmanship a way for Dior to say "thank you" for years of collaboration on intricate couture pieces, bags, and shoes.

Indian Craftsmanship Honored by European Luxury Brands

The trend for crediting Indian ateliers for their craft and handmade collaboration most likely began with Christian Louboutin, which spoke about their work with Vastrakala, a Chennai-based Indian-French atelier run by Frenchmen Jean-Francois Lesage and Patrick Savouret and Indian Malvika Shivakumar.

Indian craftsmanship's contribution to the world of luxury has been significant and has played an integral role in the success of many European luxury brands. It is time for luxury brands to acknowledge and celebrate this contribution openly.

India's Rising Ateliers

Indian Ateliers Undervalued; Indian craftsmanship has been a crucial component of the world of luxury, but it has often gone unnoticed. Luxury brands such as Dior are acknowledging and paying homage to the invaluable contribution of Indian ateliers in surface ornamentation, embroidery, and other intricate details that go into the making of luxury fashion, jewelry, home textiles, and furniture.

The trend of crediting Indian ateliers for their craft and handmade collaboration is becoming more popular, and it is a positive development that should be celebrated.

It is time for luxury brands to recognize the talent and skill of Indian craftsmen and showcase their work on a global platform.

Growth levers

In recent years, the rise of the middle class in India has led to a significant increase in disposable income, resulting in an unprecedented surge in luxury consumption.

In this context, it is essential to examine the motivations behind why consumers purchase luxury items, their perception of luxury, and how it affects their buying behavior in India.

Indian Luxury Perception

Indian consumers view luxury as a symbol of conspicuous consumption and status, which signals wealth and conveys social identity and status.

This perception is rooted in Indian society's cultural characteristics, where lavish consumption of luxury and display of wealth are prevalent in social functions. The concept of luxury, therefore, holds significant cultural and psychological value in Indian society.

Taking the Global Fashion World by Storm Understanding the psychology and cultural factors behind luxury consumption is crucial in designing effective marketing strategies. Indian consumers are willing to pay a premium for luxury products that reflect their social status and identity.

As a result, luxury brands need to develop targeted marketing campaigns that appeal to the Indian consumer's cultural and psychological values.

India's Rise and Progress

India is home to 36 percent of the world’s billionaires, these are the new Maharajas that are punters of all things luxury. According to the Frank Knight 2022 report, India ranks third globally in terms of billionaires, after US and China.

A recently published Credit Suisse report corroborates – the number of Indian millionaires will increase by 105 percent in the next three years. The country’s fashion market is driven by premiumization as wealthy GenZ buyers are making a beeline for high-end luxury products and brands promising to satiate their aspirational appetite.

India’s GDP is the fifth largest and defying global recession, continuing with a growth of 7 percent in 2023. A recent EY report states, India’s GDP will reach $26 trillion and per capita income will touch $15,000 by 2047, placing it among the top developed economies. With such prosperity, can global luxury brands stay away?

The surge in ultra-high-net-worth individuals

There's also a surge in the number of Indian ultra-high-net-worth individuals. This population has risen 11 percent between 2020 and 2021 and is expected to grow by as much as 39 percent between 2021 and 2026. These big spenders are powering the Indian luxury market. India's luxury goods market is expected to grow annually by eight percent.

The number of wealthy Indians has grown substantially over the last decade. There has been an 11 percent increase in people with incomes above $30 million since 2011.

That number is expected to climb to 39 percent by 2026. Global brands have been making a beeline into India through strategic tie-ups.

Embracing Indian Essence

Summing Up, the economic rise of the middle class in India has created a significant opportunity for luxury brands to tap into this emerging market. However, to be successful, luxury brands must understand the cultural and psychological factors that drive luxury consumption in Indian society.

By catering to these values and perceptions, luxury brands can effectively appeal to the Indian consumer's desire for status, identity, and social recognition, resulting in increased sales and brand loyalty.

Latest Textile Events

 26 April 2023, Mumbai 

The e-commerce industry has grown significantly worldwide, including in India where low computer costs and widespread internet usage have made it a viable option.

The Rise of Quick Commerce One sector that has benefited greatly from e-commerce in India is the textile industry, which accounts for 14% of the country's GDP.

What all you need to know

Revolutionizing the Indian Apparel Industry

India is now experiencing the emergence of two new forms of quick commerce: the dark store model and neighborhood store-led Q-commerce.

From Dark Stores to Quick Commerce; Dark stores use high stock volumes to provide quick delivery within a 2-3 kilometer radius, while neighborhood store-led Q-commerce allows customers to purchase from local sellers, often within 3 km.

Examples of last-mile delivery businesses that follow the dark store model include Zepto, Zomato, Swiggy, and Dunzo, while Kiko Live is a quick commerce service provider that offers local vendors and customers the option to purchase from any product category covered by Q-commerce.

Impact on India's Apparel Market

The boom in India's Apparel Sector; The role Indian apparel market is pivotal as it contributes to the country's economy is remarkable and its size and scope can be gauged as it is projected to reach $82 billion by the year 2025, going up all the way from $66 billion in the year 2020, as per a report by the India Brand Equity Foundation and quick commerce by innovating Apparel Delivery/The Quick Commerce Revolution in India is predicted to transform India's, Apparel Market. Broadly speaking Quick commerce (Q-commerce) is consistently a growing trend in the retail industry per se, facilitating/enabling super-fast and convenient delivery of items to end customers.

So far as the apparel industry goes, Q-commerce rewriting economic theory helps control/regulate inventory enhancing/improving customer satisfaction quotient by getting quick access to new collections necessitated in the times fast-fashion rules and there is an argument to be made here that fashion too is perishable.

The article necessitates the need for an underlying technical analysis of the industry-building hypothesis of sorts/shows that implementing Q-commerce needs to be backed by let us say a robust logistics infrastructure, seamless integration of technology deployed, and speed to the market business approach/agile supply chain management.

The deeper issue is that the very success of Q-commerce in the apparel industry depends on retailers' ability to adapt to customer needs, choices, and evolving preferences.

Quick Commerce and ONDC; The Indian government's ONDC initiative is expected to speed up the pace at which customers trade with local suppliers and regional retailers. The Q-commerce sector is predicted to have a CAGR of close to 27% between FY 2022 and 2027, indicating enormous potential for growth in India's digital economy.

Quick Commerce

One trend that has emerged within the Q-commerce sector in India is the rise of quick commerce, which promises delivery within 10-20 minutes.

Delivering Fashion Faster; Companies like Dunzo, Zepto, and Blinkit offer speedy delivery services to attract consumers in major cities, with the market expected to grow 15 times by 2025, reaching a market size of close to $5.5 billion.

Millennials and Gen-Z consumers from mid to high-income households in metro and tier-1 cities are generating most of the demand due to the convenience and speed of these services.

However, concerns have been raised about the pressure on delivery executives to complete faster deliveries, potentially putting their lives at risk.

The Quick Commerce Craze

Experts predict that quick commerce will only take a 10-15% share of the overall grocery e-commerce market, with long-duration deliveries still dominating.

Businesses that are successful in this model tend to stock the most commonly purchased products, popular among Gen-Z and millennials, and understand local customer preferences.

Additional fees should be charged to ensure that the service is used only for necessities and not for impulse purchases. While quick commerce is the future of delivery services, careful consideration must be given to the potential risks and challenges associated with this model.

Convenient and seamless shopping experience drives the future; Q-commerce, or quick commerce, is gaining currency and consistent traction in the Indian apparel industry owing to its aptness to deliver products speedily and super-efficiently.

Given the rising e-commerce as a fundamental tailwind of the day and, dynamic consumer behavior, Q-commerce has a fundamental advantage in offering a convenient and seamless shopping experience in the consumer's overall purchase journey.

The article gives technical insights that strongly suggest that Q-commerce platforms with robust logistics capabilities and real-time inventory management systems will help players one-upmanship in this evolving fierce competitive landscape.

Very simply the order of the day is that given the ongoing trend, it is today's business imperative for apparel players to adapt and embrace this new mode of retail to stay relevant and competitive.

Latest Textile Events

02 May 2023, Mumbai 

The Indian retail industry has learned a lot about the market after 2021. The industry experienced an 8.5% fall in FY 2021; it recovered in 2022 to reach $836 billion, with conventional retail contributing 81.5%.

However, the COVID-19 disruptions sped up the adoption of digital technology and e-commerce.

What all you need to know

As consumers continue to shop online, brands from all sectors are now focusing on growing their online presence and direct sales. Interestingly, over 61 percent of the total market share in FY 2022 will come from consumers in Tier II and Tier III cities, up from 53.8 percent in FY 2021.

Tier II and III towns showed 92.2 percent and 85.2 percent, respectively, whereas Tier I cities had a lower growth rate for e-commerce at 47.2 percent. Tier II and III cities are projected to continue to dominate in 2023. 2023 will be the year to watch, based on the direction the Indian retail sector is heading.

The retail picture so far

Fortunately, over the past few years, India has seen a boom in attracting foreign businesses; it is currently the fifth-largest global destination for retail.

The industry's expansion depends on several variables, including increased disposable incomes, Gen Z exposure to international brands, and ease of doing business. The retail sector is in for intriguing times as we start the new year, even if we merely consider the government's ambitions from 2021.

These actions would soon pay off; the transformation has already begun, allowing for a more pronounced effect. The new framework for retail digital payments offline has increased the adoption of digital payments, creating a more accurate and efficient environment that makes it simpler for customers to make purchases or complete transactions.

As they say, time is money, and digital transformation has multiplied the time saved by directing more resources to other areas of business progress.

Mega predictions that will be driving the retail world:

The relentless march of technology

Industries brace for disruption Putting customers first

The growing importance of customer experience in the age of technology

The rise of sustainable business

Why sustainability is no longer a choice, but a necessity From likes to purchases How social media is revolutionizing the way we shop

The power of the small

How micro-influencers are changing the face of influencer marketing

Beyond tokenism

Interesting facts; Why workforce diversity and inclusion are crucial for the future of retail The national government has opened the automatic route for FDI in the online retail of goods and services.

We also have information on the retail and wholesale trades being recognized as MSMEs, allowing them to access financing for the priority sector.

The retail sector is only one of the many industries that have profited from the government's encouragement of digital transformation on the battlefield.

This ground-breaking innovation has been the best thing that has ever happened. To empower the Gen-Z, tech-savvy, and millennial consumer-driven markets, retailers are flooding the market in droves with investments in cutting-edge technology.

According to a Forbes report, global investments in AR and VR will undoubtedly exceed $72.8 billion in 2024. The use of chatbots will rise as consumers participate in more conversational commerce. By 2026, the chatbot market is projected to be worth over $102 billion, with a CAGR of less than 35%.

What the future holds

Today's consumers desire experiences that go above and beyond the average shopping experience and demand white-glove customer service. 32% of customers are more likely to interact with in-store experiencing moments, according to numerous market surveys.

Companies may offer their clients one-of-a-kind, cutting-edge experiences through experiential shopping, both online and offline. Retailers may provide immersive shopping experiences emphasizing in-person interactions utilizing AR/VR technology, strengthening the bond between the brand and the customer.

Businesses can use this cutting-edge technology in several innovative ways, including virtual fitting rooms, virtual shopping, virtual navigation, and in-store displays. This technology enhances contactless transactions and promotes interactivity.

Retail companies, like all businesses, are experiencing significant disruption and uncertainty caused by geopolitical unrest, financial volatility, inflation, housing shakeouts, supply chain breakdowns, and rate hikes.

However, retailers can turn this disruption into opportunities by focusing on strengthening infrastructure, improving margins, and enhancing the customer experience.

Even though government subsidies have dried up, and budgets will be tighter, retailers that can focus on these areas will likely increase their profitability.

Latest Textile Events

29 April 2023, Mumbai 

The BRIC countries cover more than 25% of the world's landscape and 40% of the world's population, and they are accountable for a combined GDP of 15.435 trillion dollars.

The textile and fashion industry in BRICS countries is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 6 to 7 percent between 2019 and 2025, according to a McKinsey & Company report.

What all you need to know

Kickers; With a growing population and expanding middle classes, these countries are becoming increasingly important markets for global textile and fashion brands.

I in BRICS is standing tall was remarked by of the globally renewed economist earlier.

The Power of Diversity

While China has long been a dominant player in the industry, the other BRICS countries have also made significant strides. India has emerged as a major hub for textile manufacturing and is home to several leading fashion brands, while Brazil has a thriving fashion scene and a growing number of textile companies.

Russia is seeing a rise in luxury fashion brands (The caveat here is that though post-Russia@war the situation is not exactly the same) and South Africa is becoming a key player in the African fashion market.

Preeminence; BRICS Countries Emerge as Major Players in the Global Fashion and Textile Industry

The growth in the BRICS fashion industry is being driven by the expanding middle class in these countries, which has more disposable income to spend on fashion and apparel.

Sustainability Struggles & Ethical Imperatives; However, despite growth, there are numerous challenges that need to be addressed.

Sustainability and ethical practices are foremost among them, as many BRICS textile manufacturers have been accused of using unsustainable production methods and exploiting workers, putting pressure on fashion brands and textile manufacturers to adopt more sustainable and ethical practices.

Environmental Impact

The industry also faces other challenges, including environmental impact and labor exploitation. However, initiatives have been launched, such as India's Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT) program and China's program to promote sustainable cotton production, to address these issues.

Geopolitical developments

Thrives Against Odds; The pandemic has also shifted global economic power dynamics in favor of developing countries, with the BRICS nations contributing more towards global GDP in terms of purchasing power parity than the G7 industrialized nations.

This has led to increased interest in these countries from global fashion brands and textile manufacturers.

Growth Hurdles

The BRICS fashion and textile industry is a fast-growing market with great potential for growth in the coming years.

While there are challenges that need to be addressed, initiatives are being taken to promote sustainable and ethical practices in the industry.

Tailwinds; With the growing middle class and increasing popularity of online shopping, the industry is expected to continue to grow in the years to come.

HERE's ALL YOU WANTED TO KNOW

Growth prognosis

Industry experts predict that the BRIC countries (Brazil, Russia, India, and China) will become the four major dominating economies by 2050. The apparel sector holds great potential for growth in these nations, as increasing disposable income is leading consumers to spend more on apparel.

Opportunities galore

With a large population and strong economic growth, the BRIC countries are attracting global retailers who are intensively focusing on these mass markets. Concentrating solely on core markets such as Europe, the US, and the UK is no longer enough to establish a successful presence in the global market.

The leader of the pack

According to the 2010 GRDI study by A.T. Kearney, China ranks first, India ranks third, Brazil ranks sixth, and Russia ranks tenth among the top ten countries on the Global Retail Development Index.

Kinetics

The market for apparel is dynamic due to the strong polarization of buyers, positive changes in income levels, changes in shopping trends, and the expectations of the middle and upper-middle-class segments to wear branded and global brands.

Women are the most influential factor in the apparel market, as they not only choose their own apparel/clothes but also make decisions on the purchase of garments/clothes for their husbands and children.

Robust India

India's retail industry is poised for substantial growth, according to the Global Powers of Retailing 2023 report.

The country's middle class and untapped retail market have caught the attention of international retail giants looking to expand their businesses.

The increasing purchasing power of urban Indian consumers is driving the growth of branded goods in categories such as apparel, cosmetics, footwear, watches, beverages, food, and jewellery.

The Indian government has made efforts to improve the business climate by simplifying the process for foreign companies to register fully-owned subsidiaries in the country.

This has contributed to India's rise as the world's fifth-largest global destination in the retail space, according to the Business-to-Consumer (B2C) E-commerce Index 2019.

The World Bank's Doing Business 2020 report has also ranked India 63rd globally, indicating a favourable business environment for retail companies.

The retail market size in India is projected to reach US$ 2 trillion by 2032, as per a recent analysis by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG). This expansion will be fuelled by the growth of the middle class and the increased demand for organized retail, both online and offline.

In conclusion, India's retail industry presents a lucrative opportunity for international retail giants. The Indian government's efforts to simplify the business environment for foreign companies will further boost the industry's growth potential.

The increase in purchasing power of urban Indian consumers will continue to drive the growth of the branded goods market, leading to substantial growth in the coming years.

Brazil Profile

In Brazil, the fifth largest apparel market in the world, local players dominate the market, leaving little room for the entry of multinationals. Only a few retailers such as Mango, Zara, mom-and-pop, C&A, and Miss Sixty have successfully established a presence in the market.

The preference for local brands is high in Brazil, posing a challenge for international retailers looking to establish a foothold in the market.

Making a strong argument that" The increasing popularity of online shopping is also a significant factor, making it easier for fashion brands to reach consumers and the pandemic has only accelerated this phenomenon".

Latest Textile Events

 25 April 2023, Mumbai 

In recent years after UPI global scale initiative the Indian government has undertaken the ONDC initiative aiming to replicate the eureka moment in the Indian E-commerce universe creating a unified e-commerce platform democratizing for all Indian retailers, reducing the country's reliance on global foreign e-commerce biggies both boosting the economy and facilitate developing self-help model.

What all you need to know

Big tech investors such as Japan’s SoftBank and Sequoia Capital India have advised their portfolio firms to join the government’s Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) as was quoted in a media report when this much-talked-about platform was launched earlier.

Prelude

ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce) intends to enable Kirana and the value chain to run digital storefronts transparently with broader logistics and inventory options, analysts posit as the pilot continues in the early days. The open network for digital commerce (ONDC ).

The government-backed initiative aimed at curbing digital monopolies is working on a framework for an in-house settlement system. ONDC is being pitched as a solution to make the E-Commerce platform agnostic and therefore break the dominance of large e-tailers.

India's One Nation, One Digital Platform

The platform has rapidly expanded its footprint across various categories within a very short span which includes the apparel sector and is aspiring to revolutionize the Indian e-commerce industry seen never before.

ONDC has demonstrated leveraging technology to enhance the shopping experience, using AI and machine learning algorithms to personalize product recommendations based on customer preferences. Its focus on sustainability and ethical practices has resonated well with consumers, with initiatives aimed at reducing waste, promoting eco-friendly products, and supporting local artisans and weavers.

The Indian e-commerce giant Flipkart has recently acquired Cleartrip, a travel booking platform, to expand beyond traditional retail and tap into the growing travel industry.

This move is expected to strengthen Flipkart's position in the Indian e-commerce market, currently dominated by Amazon, by offering customers travel bookings alongside its existing range of products.

Revolutionizing the Indian Apparel Industry

The role Indian apparel market is pivotal as it contributes to the country's economy is remarkable and its size and scope can be gauged as it is projected to reach $82 billion by the year 2025, going up all the way from $66 billion in the year 2020, as per a report by the India Brand Equity Foundation. All this robust growth is backed up predominantly driven by factors like rising consumer incomes, changing lifestyles, and increased internet and enormous smartphone penetration in India.

A case in point is MNC E-commerce companies like Flipkart are tapping into this vast opportunity by investing and putting money where their mouth is in categories like fashion/apparel category, unleashing strategies like harnessing private labels and partnering with prominent fashion/apparel brands.

ONDC's Ethical and Sustainable Practices

The best part of the story is the platform continues to leverage technology to improve the online shopping experience, using AI to provide bespoke/personalized recommendations.

ALBEIT! The apparel industry grapples with odds/challenges some of them are a highly fragmented market, a fiercely competitive trade landscape, and the perennial malaise called the rampant practices of counterfeit/fake products.

Using AI in the Apparel Industry; With The growing application and acceptance of emerging technologies to overcome shortcomings of different processes, increasingly players are adopting relevant technology, such as blockchain, to enhance transparency and traceability in the supply chain.

No prize for guessing the Indian e-commerce market is leapfrogging by the day on the back of favorable government policies and fundamental demand tailwinds.

Cashing in on global giants as the largest e-commerce player in the country, Flipkart is in a unique place to tap into vast opportunities of these trends and widen & deepen its mega-presence both in the apparel industry and much beyond.

ONDC's Seamless Shopping Experience

The article attempts to outline the contribution & role already played by ONDC in metamorphosing/transforming the Indian apparel industry visibly by making it more accessible, affordable, and much-convenient improving the experiential shopping/buying consumer journey.

The platform is very versatile & diverse covering a whole gamut of the collection spanning ethnic wear, western wear, and fusion wear, catering to a vignette of customers.

We have to mention here that, its success in the apparel industry is all due to its sharp concentration on providing a seamless shopping experience, with underlined features viz. easy navigation, multiple payment options, and hassle-free returns amongst others.

ONDC is sustainably been investing in building its logistics infrastructure, facilitating speedy and more credible deliveries/delivery mechanisms Pan-India. Industry to Compete with Amazons of the world; Happy to report that, ONDC's foray into the apparel industry has been nothing short of a life-changer, fuelling growth, creativity, and innovation-led approaches, and its focus on delivering smooth/seamless, personalized, and sustainable customer shopping journey experience is very central in the apparel industry interface.

Digital Platform Initiative to Boost Economy

In conclusion, the Indian e-commerce industry is exploding with growth ever since the pandemic struck, with players like Flipkart and ONDC getting started with an innovation-led basic approach and in the higher growth trajectory widening/deepening their presence/digital footprints across a range of categories which of course includes apparel & is poised to leapfrog in the years ahead presenting the opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.

Latest Textile Events

01 May 2023, Mumbai 

Climate change will significantly affect cotton output and trade depending on where cotton is produced.

This report, which will be presented, examines the effects of climate change on cotton commerce and production in the significant cotton-producing regions of the globe, as well as the solutions available to reduce and adapt to these effects.

What all you need to know

Climate change affects cotton production as well as contributes to it. Agricultural production, processing, commerce, and consumption account for up to 40% of global emissions when forest clearance is considered. Between 0.3% to 1% of all greenhouse gas emissions are attributable to cotton production.

Benefits of Cotton Garments in Tropical Climates; Historically, India's tropical climate is characterized by high/ultra-high temperatures zones/regions and humidity, simply making it bare-essential to wear worthy garments/clothing to stay comfortable and stylish.

Fact sheet on cotton crop

Cotton is a tropical Kharif crop in India, taking 6-8 months to mature in temperatures between 21-30°C. It grows on various soils, but deep, fertile soil with humus, water-holding capacity, and drainage is best.

Excessive moisture and water logging harm cotton growth. Despite losing land during partition, cotton acreage has increased over the last 50 years, occupying 4.7% of India's cropped area.

Essay: Cotton Clothing in Indian Tropics

Adaptability is crucial for human survival and well-being, especially when it comes to buffering against the effects of environmental variations.

One way humans achieve adaptability is by modifying and adopting different clothing patterns. In India, where there is a wide range of climatic variations between different regions, clothing patterns also vary accordingly.

The eastern, southern, and western zones of India have similar hot and humid tropical climates. In these regions, loose-fitting garments that cover the body are particularly popular. This clothing pattern is essential for maximizing convective and evaporative heat loss by facilitating air movement across the clothing worn.

From a technical perspective, loose-fitting garments are effective in promoting heat loss through convection and evaporation. Heat transfer through convection occurs when air flows across the skin's surface and carries away heat. The loose-fitting garment allows air to circulate freely across the skin's surface, creating a convective heat transfer.

Additionally, evaporative heat loss happens when sweat evaporates from the skin's surface. Loose-fitting garments allow sweat to evaporate quickly, promoting evaporative heat loss.

Overall, the adoption of different clothing patterns in India demonstrates how humans can adapt to a wide range of environmental variations.

By modifying clothing patterns to suit climatic conditions, individuals can buffer against the adverse effects of the environment and maintain their well-being. From a technical standpoint, loose-fitting garments that facilitate convective and evaporative heat loss are particularly effective in hot and humid tropical climates.

Importance of the cotton industry

Cotton is the leading natural staple fiber, accounting for approximately 50% of the world's textile fiber production. This natural fiber strongly supports air to circulate all across, checking the buildup of heat and moisture which is likely to cause discomfort & unease. The versatility of cotton seeds extends beyond fiber production, as they are also utilized in creating outerwear garments that are widely embraced, particularly in tropical regions.

India's economy and foreign exchange profits are considerably boosted by cotton, one of its main cash crops. The livelihoods of almost 60 million people depend on the production of cotton and allied sectors. In actuality, India has the most significant area under cotton cultivation—about 34% of the total area in the world.

The Indian cotton industry faces substantial difficulties regarding productivity and environmentally friendly production and consumption techniques. Cotton cultivation requires a lot of water. Unfortunately, rain-fed agriculture is heavily relied upon by cotton farmers in India. And this makes for over 70% of the area used for cotton growing.

Reality pulse

Daily life in tropical regions can be uncomfortable for visitors who have not dressed appropriately for the climate.

When selecting fabrics for warm and humid areas, it is important to consider their properties, such as breathability, moisture-wicking, and lightweight nature, which can make them highly suitable for use in such regions.

Apart from fabric choice, it is also crucial to ensure that clothing fits well and is comfortable, as tight or ill-fitting garments can exacerbate the discomfort caused by high temperatures.

Tropics-friendly apparel

Cotton garments are a popular choice for people residing typically in tropical regions/countries like India. It is advisable to purchase tropics-friendly clothing locally, as local garments are typically tailored to suit the climate and are made from suitable materials. Additionally, observing the clothing choices of locals can provide valuable insights into what to wear in tropical regions.

Technical analysis suggests that garments made from natural fibers, such as cotton and linen, are ideal for use in tropical climates as they are breathable, moisture-wicking, and have a comfortable texture. Polyester and other synthetic fabrics should be avoided as they tend to trap moisture and heat, causing discomfort and irritation.

In addition to rainfall patterns, pest infestation significantly impacts cotton farming in India. For many years, cotton crops have been destroyed by bollworms and sucking bugs. Even though cotton cultivation only takes up 5% of the country's total harvestable land, cotton cultivation uses about 50% of the pesticides applied there.

These challenges impact the present-day organization of cotton production and consumption in India. On the financial front, the problems primarily stem from inefficiency in the production process, including seed selection, harvesting methods, post-harvest storage, and transportation.

Several elements affect environmental sustainability, including the amount of trash and how it is managed and the unsustainable use of resources like water, pesticides, and fertilizers.

Important chemicals wasting the effective growth of cotton in the tropics Environmental Health Concerns; The usage of fertilizers and pesticides is another factor contributing to environmental degradation. It is common knowledge that traditional cotton farming significantly relies on these two inputs to protect the crop and increase productivity. Numerous studies have determined how these substances affect the environment and human health. These findings show that while fertilizers also contribute to soil erosion and alkalinity acidity, pesticide use directly impacts the ecosystem and human health.

The usage of fertilizers and pesticides is another factor contributing to environmental degradation. It is common knowledge that traditional cotton farming significantly relies on these two inputs to protect the crop and increase productivity.

Numerous studies have determined how these substances affect the environment and human health. These findings show that while fertilizers also contribute to soil erosion and alkalinity acidity, pesticide use directly impacts the ecosystem and human health.

Fibre of choice

Cotton clothing is a popular choice for summer due to its ability to absorb heat and sweat, keeping the body cool and comfortable. Additionally, cotton clothing provides protection from harmful UV rays. The benefits of wearing cotton clothes include comfort, absorbency, and protection.

Cotton clothing is a popular choice for summer due to its ability to absorb heat and sweat, keeping the body cool and comfortable. Additionally, cotton clothing provides protection from harmful UV rays. The benefits of wearing cotton clothes include comfort, absorbency, and protection.

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27 April 2023, Mumbai 

The Indian cotton industry is defying the international trend of falling cotton prices, with Indian cotton holding steady in price despite weak global demand. This is due to lower market deliveries, with reports indicating that raw cotton being delivered to the local Indian market is significantly lower this year compared to previous years.

What all you need to know

Indian cotton prices remain high; This has resulted in a price increase for Indian cotton, with a candy of Indian spot cotton selling for Rs 63,300 and a candy of the S-6 2 variant at Rs 62,150.

Indian manufacturing sector holds the fort

The local textile industry in India has contributed to this trend, as the Indian government's expansion plan in this sector is about to take off.

The overall domestic manufacturing sector has held the fort against the global downturn and is carrying on well, with the World Bank commending the growth of Indian manufacturing and exports.

Textile production, as one of the main sectors within India's manufacturing industry, has been resilient despite sluggish global growth, one of the reasons being robust domestic demand.

India's Manufacturing Purchase Index (PMI) rose by 1.1 percent and as of January 2023 stood at 55.4 points, signaling steady growth.

Market dynamics

According to a recent report by CareEdge Ratings, India's cotton yarn exports are set to fall by 28-30% in the fiscal year 2023. The decline is attributed to high cotton prices and weak export demand.

Furthermore, the report predicts that cotton prices will rise to INR75,000 per candy by the middle of the year due to high demand and lower crop output.

The low cotton production combined with higher consumption in India may lead to the country transitioning from being a net exporter to an importer.

It is important to note that the panic in the banking system and the slow recovery of textile and apparel consumption have resulted in a downward trend in international cotton prices.

Changing market landscape; As such, these factors could have significant implications for the cotton industry in India, as well as for global cotton prices in the coming months.

Technical analysis suggests that if the current trend of low supply and high demand continues, Indian cotton prices may experience an upward trend.

However, if this trend intensifies, resulting in a significant domestic supply and demand imbalance, it could lead to an out-of-control market like last year. In such a scenario, the Indian government may consider removing cotton import duty, which could have a positive impact on global cotton prices.

Strong downstream demand drives up Indian cotton prices A vibrant downstream demand has also contributed to the up-pricing of Indian cotton. Orders from China, Turkey, and Europe have increased, leading to escalating prices for a commodity in short supply.

Globally, cotton of Indian provenance has taken an upward turn in demand, with India's cotton-yarn spinners being the secondary beneficiaries.

The projection is a 100-basis point improvement in operating profitability to 12 percent in the fiscal year 2023-24 despite a 10 percent on-year fall in revenue due to lowered realizations and sluggish exports, based on CRISIL ratings.

Indian Government's Textile Initiatives Fuel Optimism

The Indian government's initiatives have also played a role in this trend, with policies that are conducive to downstream capacity expansion being introduced. The acclaimed seven gigantic textile parks in the country are in their advanced stage of readiness, fuelling a lot of hope for both the domestic and export markets.

The key components of these governmental policies are reduced import tariffs on certain textile machinery, spare parts, and accessories, including shuttle-less looms in the category of zero tariffs.

Low Market Delivery of Cotton in India Leads to Price Hike

Summarising, the Indian cotton industry's holding of steady prices in the face of weak global demand is due to lower market deliveries, India's manufacturing sector's resilience, and a vibrant downstream demand.

The Indian government's initiatives, such as the introduction of policies that are conducive to downstream capacity expansion, have also played a role in this trend.

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