The Power of Automation and Robotics for a Sustainable Future

On November 15, 2024, The Textile Association (India), Mumbai Unit, hosted a groundbreaking International Conference on "Automation and Robotics in Textile & Apparel Industry" at Hotel The Lalit, Mumbai. The event, attended by over 350 delegates, highlighted the growing significance of automation and robotics in transforming the textile industry.

?Standing (L to R): Mr. R. R. Patil, Vice President, TAI, Mumbai Unit, Mr. Rajiv Ranjan, President, TAI, Mumbai Unit, Mr. Navdeep S. Sodhi, Partner, Gherzi Textil Organisation, Zurich, Mr. Priyavrata Mafatlal, Managing Director, Mafatlal Industries Ltd., Ms. Roop Rashi, Textile Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, Mr. T. L. Patel, President, TAI, Mr. G. V. Aras, Conference Chairman & Trustee, TAI, Mumbai Unit, Mr. V. C. Gupte, Conference Convenor & Chairman, TAI, Mumbai Unit.

The conference was graced by esteemed figures, including Ms. Roop Rashi, Textile Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India, and Mr. Navdeep S. Sodhi, Partner at Gherzi Textil Organization, Zurich, who shared invaluable insights into the international textile landscape. The event also celebrated the achievements of Mr. Pradeep Dodhia, Managing Director of Dodhia Synthetics, who received the prestigious “Industrial Excellence Award” for his exemplary contributions to the textile sector.

In his opening address, Mr. V. C. Gupte, Chairman of TAI Mumbai Unit, underscored the importance of automation and robotics in enhancing productivity, quality, and efficiency across the textile value chain. He stressed that, while large organized sectors have embraced these technologies, there is a pressing need for MSMEs to also adopt automation to remain competitive.

The conference featured two technical sessions and an engaging panel discussion. Experts from across the globe explored a variety of automation technologies, including AI-driven systems for predictive maintenance, automated textile waste management solutions, and machine upgradation strategies for MSMEs. These discussions revealed how advanced technologies are enhancing textile production, improving resource utilization, and driving sustainability.

The panel discussion, moderated by Mr. Rajiv Ranjan, President of TAI Mumbai Unit, explored the challenges and opportunities associated with the widespread adoption of automation and robotics. Panelists discussed how automation could drive operational efficiency, reduce waste, and support sustainable practices, while also addressing concerns such as high initial costs, skill gaps, and job displacement.

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In closing, delegates agreed that the future of the textile industry lies in embracing automation, robotics, and AI to meet global demands for higher quality and lower environmental impact. As India’s textile industry stands on the cusp of transformation, the conference emphasized the critical need for collaboration between industry leaders, technology providers, and the government to foster innovation and accelerate the adoption of these cutting-edge technologies.

The conference served as a powerful reminder that while the journey towards automation presents challenges, it also offers tremendous opportunities for growth, sustainability, and global competitiveness.