The apparel export industry expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his encouraging speech at Bharat Tex 2025. Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) Chairman, Sudhir Sekhri, pledged the industry's commitment to realizing the PM's vision of a developed India by 2027.
Sekhri emphasized the industry's focus on empowering MSMEs, which comprise 80 per cent of garment exporters, and women, who make up 80 per cent of the workforce. He lauded the government's support for this employment-intensive sector. The industry, he stated, is already actively embracing sustainable practices and waste management, exceeding many developed nations in this area.
Bharat Tex, within two years, has become a vital platform for textile stakeholders, fostering collaborations across the value chain, Sekhri noted. He highlighted the Union Budget 2025-26's focus on MSME exports through government-guaranteed credit support and the mission to address tariff and non-tariff barriers, simplifying business operations.
Sekhri acknowledged the PM's call for skill development, citing his interaction with women workers who have achieved socio-economic mobility through training. He also welcomed the PM's appeal to banks for priority lending to MSMEs for capacity expansion.
The industry, Sekhri affirmed, will heed the PM's suggestion to partner with institutions like IITs to promote innovation and startups. The apparel sector is committed to working towards the PM's vision, driving growth and empowerment.
