Ludhiana Seminar On Development Of Capital Goods Sector

ITAMMA recently organised an event in Ludhiana as part of its pan-India seminars on the topic of ‘Development of Capital Goods Sector’.

Charanjiv Singh, General Secretary of Knitwear & Textile Club spoke about the vibrant Ludhiana hosiery and knitwear industry, highlighting its profound history and role in driving the region’s economy.

He pointed out how this sector not only generates extensive employment opportunities but also significantly boosts India’s export earnings.

According to him, the growth trajectory of Ludhiana’s hosiery and knitwear sector is intricately woven with threads of innovation, quality enhancement, and strategic market broadening.

He emphasised the critical importance of investing in superior quality raw materials, including premium wool and eco-friendly fibres, to elevate the final product’s market appeal.

Furthermore, Singh underscored the necessity of embracing cutting-edge knitting and sewing technologies.

Manjit Singh Matharoo–Secretary General of FICO Mega Machine Tool Cluster, Ludhiana stressed on the critical need for infrastructure improvements and the modernisation of small-scale industries.

He observed that large enterprises enjoy greater market visibility and influence, often benefiting from government policies and initiatives tailored by and for their scale, leaving smaller entities at a disadvantage.

According to him, small industries frequently miss out on schemes, grants, and technological support, facing significant hurdles in accessing financial assistance and skilled labour.

This situation, he lamented, has rendered entrepreneurship increasingly untenable. He highlighted the government’s reluctance to extend support to individual entrepreneurs or industry clusters.

Dr Shiv Kumar Lohan–Scientist (FMPC) of Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana shared insights into how the textile industry is intricately linked with agriculture, humanity’s oldest profession.

He highlighted that in regions like Haryana and Punjab, agriculture has seen significant mechanisation.

Dr. Lohan proudly referenced Punjab Agricultural University as a cornerstone of the green revolution, which dramatically increased grain exports.

He observed a shift from manual labour to mechanization in agriculture, detailing the adoption of various machines aimed at boosting crop yields.

Among these, he mentioned the laser-guided land leveller, pneumatic planter, manually operated and drone sprayers, combined harvester, and the bale shredder cum spreader, as pivotal to modern farming techniques.

However, Dr. Lohan also addressed the darker side of mechanisation, such as accidents and health hazards associated with agricultural machinery.

Ganesh Shenoy, MD, Tex-Fab Industries shed light on the lack of innovation within the sector. He emphasised the need to reduce water consumption and minimise the use of chemicals in the dyeing process, advocating for reuse and recycling practices.

Shenoy discussed the recycling of residual hot water from the Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) to lower operational costs.

Furthermore, he highlighted advancements in energy efficiency, such as the development of insulation coatings to conserve heat and energy for glass surfaces.

Hot air dryers, he noted, offer significant savings in electricity and water usage, reducing environmental impact.

Shangrila Sharma, Director HR & Administration, Sambuq.com India spoke about the ITAMMA Smart Data Clinic, a comprehensive platform designed to enhance information sharing and market research.

She said that this evolving platform aims to evolve into an e-marketplace for the Textile Engineering Industry and its ecosystem.

Central to its functionality is its role as a centralised hub, offering features like a knowledge portal and virtual learning center, facilitating business networking opportunities, and serving as a digital marketplace for affiliates and members alike.

Additionally, she underscored the platform’s collaboration with the government on schemes and grants, alongside its provision of various job and news portals.

“These initiatives underscore its pivotal role in fostering a collaborative and supportive environment conducive to the industry’s technological advancement and overall development,” Sharma added.

ND Mhatre, Director General (Tech), ITAMMA provided in-depth insights into the customised schemes offered by MHI for the textile engineering industry.

He cited an impressive 83 percent import rate of spare parts and accessories as evidence of widespread adoption of advanced technology.

He emphasised the accessibility of these schemes to industrialists aiming to modernise their manufacturing processes to meet cutting-edge standards.

Of particular note was his discussion on the textile supply industry versus the textile manufacturers association, delineated into five sectors, including research and development, green engineering, and IT application and development centres.

Mhatre highlighted the importance of tapping into various funds allocated for sector development, such as the Technology Acquisition Fund (TAF) and Technology Innovation Platforms (TIFs), conveniently accessible on the ITAMMA website.

Furthermore, he stressed ITAMMA’s commitment to fostering public private partnerships, citing initiatives like Vocal for Local and Atma Nirbhar Bharat.

He also pointed out the presence of advanced centres of excellence and the availability of funds for joint ventures, which provide crucial support to the textile industry while promoting innovation and collaboration within the sector.