East India Advances Sustainability with New AMHSSC and Bluesign® eLearning Course for the Apparel & Textile Industry

Kolkata : The Apparel Made-Ups & Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council (AMHSSC) in collaboration with bluesign® is thrilled to introduce the Foundation to Apparel Sustainability eLearning course. The event, held at the ITC Royal Bengal Hotel, signifies a major advancement in promoting sustainable and ethical practices within India’s textile and apparel sector.

India’s textile and apparel industry is a cornerstone of the national economy, accounting for approximately 2% of GDP and 18% of manufacturing output. The sector employs 45 million people directly and supports another 60 million in related industries. As the world’s 5th largest exporter, India’s role highlights the pressing need for sustainable development within this sector.

The event featured distinguished industry leaders including Mr Anil Buchasia, MD , Amrit Exports and Regional Incharge, Eastern Region, AEPC; Ms. Katharina Verena Mayer, Director Customer Relations bluesign technologies; and Dr. Vijay Yadav, CEO AMHSSC. The ceremony began with the traditional lighting of the lamp, symbolizing a dedication to a sustainable future.

The Foundation to Apparel Sustainability Course, developed by bluesign® academy in collaboration with AMHSSC, will commence in September 2024. Delivered through an online module format over eight weeks, the course will feature one e-learning session each week. It aims to provide an in-depth exploration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) aspects in the textile industry, with a particular focus on the Indian market. This course supports India’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by 2070, as pledged by the Hon’ble Prime Minister, by equipping industry leaders with the knowledge and skills needed to implement sustainable practices.

The course is designed to offer practical knowledge that participants can directly apply within manufacturing units. Tailored for senior and middle management in the apparel industry, it empowers these leaders to drive responsible change and support India’s emergence as a global leader in sustainability. Topics covered include an introduction to sustainable fashion, a historical perspective of the fashion industry, sustainable fibers, eco-friendly textile processes, impact and footprint assessment, chemical management and hazard assessment, social and ethical aspects in apparel sustainability, and sustainability reporting.

This initiative not only sets new standards for responsible business conduct in India’s textile and apparel sector but also aligns with international expectations and growing consumer demands for ethical and sustainable products. In Kolkata, the course aims to transform local industry practices, promoting sustainability and enhancing competitiveness in the city’s vibrant textile sector.

The AMHSSC and bluesign® invite all stakeholders in the textile and apparel sector to participate in this transformative course. By joining hands, we can ensure a sustainable future for the industry, benefiting not just businesses but also the environment and society at large.

Dr. Vijay Yadav, CEO of AMHSSC, welcomed the attendees and extended heartfelt gratitude to Padma Shri Dr. A. Sakthivel, Chairman of AMHSSC, for his visionary leadership in guiding the Council to enhance awareness and knowledge across India’s apparel industry. Dr. Yadav highlighted the launch of the Foundation of Apparel Sustainability, an 8-week e-learning program developed in collaboration with Bluesign Academy. He noted that this initiative not only advances industry practices but also provides Indian manufacturers with a competitive edge on the global stage.

Ms. Katharina Verena Meyer, Director of Customer Relations, Asia, delivered a moving message about the importance of protecting our planet. She recited the ‘Mother Earth Prayer’ from MaitriBodh India:

“Today and now, I express my love and care for You. Forgive me for causing pain to You. Let me protect and nurture you once again. Let me heal Your wounds with my love. Love, Love, and only Love for You.”

Ms. Meyer emphasized that the course is designed to benefit not only the apparel industry but also to support the long-term health of our planet and future generations.

Special Guest Mr. Anil Buchasia, MD, Amrit Exports and Regional In-charge, Eastern Region, AEPC, underscored the significant potential of East India’s exporters, highlighting that the region can generate ₹30,000 crore in annual exports, comparable to the renowned Tirupur export hub. He also conveyed deep appreciation for Dr. A. Sakthivel, referring to him as the ‘Bheeshma Pitamaha’ of the Indian apparel industry and recognizing his unwavering commitment and substantial contributions to the sector.