The Maharashtra government has constituted a state-level advisory committee headed by the Chief Secretary to speed up the academic, financial and infrastructure development of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Mumbai centre.
The committee has been tasked with improving coordination between the state government, educational institutions and industry representatives while preparing a broader development roadmap for the centre.
NIFT is a premier national institute specialising in fashion design, technology and management. Functioning under the Union Ministry of Textiles, it has been accorded the status of an ‘Institution of National Importance’ and plays an important role in supplying skilled professionals to India’s textile and fashion sectors.
The NIFT Mumbai centre was established in 1995 on a 10-acre campus at Kharghar in Navi Mumbai. However, infrastructure development at the centre has reportedly not kept pace with emerging requirements such as artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled facilities, 3D design technology and advanced laboratories.
The newly formed committee is expected to examine ways to expand and modernise the campus and strengthen its contribution to Maharashtra’s fashion, textile and creative industries.
The decision follows a resolution by the NIFT Board of Directors to establish state-level advisory committees for its centres across the country, with the respective state Chief Secretary serving as chairperson.
For the Mumbai centre, the committee will oversee and provide guidance on infrastructure construction, expansion proposals and development plans. It will also review the selection of construction agencies, funding requirements, allocation and utilisation of funds, and timelines for different projects.
The panel will include representatives from educational and technical institutions, along with industry specialists. NIFT’s Director General or a nominated representative will serve as a member, while the Director of the Mumbai centre will act as member secretary.
Key Areas of Focus
The committee will advise on financial planning, administrative measures and project implementation. Its responsibilities will also include mobilising funds for educational programmes, strengthening partnerships with regional industries and promoting skill-development initiatives aligned with evolving industry requirements.
The formation of the committee is expected to provide a structured mechanism for upgrading the NIFT Mumbai centre and improving its academic, technological and industry-oriented capabilities.
Source: Loksatta
