President Droupadi Murmu today said that the textile and apparel sector is not only an important part of India’s cultural heritage but also provides livelihood to millions of people. Addressing the convocation ceremony of National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), the President called upon students of NIFT to adopt a global outlook while remaining rooted in the country’s rich cultural heritage and values.

Emphasising the growing role of women in the fashion industry, the President said around 85 per cent of the nearly four thousand students present at the event are women. She said India has immense potential to expand its global presence in fashion and textile technology. The President urged students to use their knowledge, skills and creativity to connect the country’s traditional textile heritage with contemporary markets and new technologies. Graduating students from 18 NIFT campuses across the country were conferred degrees on the occasion.

Calling upon the youth to contribute to the vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047, the President said students should not remain merely job seekers, but should strive to become job providers and create employment opportunities for others.

President Murmu said that over the past four decades, NIFT students and professionals have made significant achievements at the national and international levels, bringing recognition to India. She appreciated the contribution of NIFT professionals in promoting Indian textiles, silk and design traditions on the global stage.

President Murmu congratulated the graduating students, their parents and award winners for outstanding academic performance.