The Vice-President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, today addressed the Annual Awards Function of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) in New Delhi and congratulated the awardees for their outstanding contributions to India’s apparel export sector.
Addressing the gathering, the Vice-President said that the apparel and textile sector continues to be a vital pillar of India’s economy. He noted that the sector provides direct employment to more than 4.5 crore people and supports the livelihoods of over one crore individuals indirectly. He added that it contributes around 2 per cent to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and nearly 11 per cent to the Gross Value Added (GVA) of the manufacturing sector.
Shri Radhakrishnan highlighted the strong and multi-dimensional support extended by the Government of India under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the textile and apparel industry. He referred to initiatives such as PM MITRA Parks and the SAMARTH skill development programme, stating that the Prime Minister has outlined an ambitious Vision 2030 to position India as a global powerhouse in this sector.
The Vice-President emphasised that government initiatives can achieve their true purpose only when industry stakeholders respond with innovation, commitment, and determination.
Appreciating the resilience shown by Indian apparel exporters despite global challenges, Shri Radhakrishnan said the government is actively engaged in discussions and initiatives to address industry concerns, including ongoing Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations.
He urged the apparel industry to actively explore new markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. He also called upon exporters to focus on value addition, diversify export products, reduce import dependence, promote innovation and research and development, and encourage sustainable export practices.
Describing the textile sector as labour-intensive, the Vice-President noted that it is the second-largest source of employment in the country after agriculture. He stressed the importance of ensuring the welfare of workers employed in the industry.
Expressing optimism about the future, he said exports from the sector are expected to double in the coming years, creating significant additional employment opportunities. He expressed confidence that the apparel sector will play a leading role in achieving the goal of a developed and self-reliant India.
-in-raipur.jpg)
