FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK
Dear Friends,
As I pen down my views, I’d like to begin by expressing how honoured and thankful I am to
chair a role that is of such high stature and regard. I would like to express my gratitude and
appreciation to all the respected committee members for unanimously electing me as the
President of the Association for the remaining Tenure of this Managing Committee.
Rahul Bhai has successfully led us for 15 years and has contributed immensely to the growth
of CMAI. It is because of his hard work, grit and sheer passion that CMAI has achieved some
notable milestones. While I step into this new responsibility, I feel privileged to have closely
worked with Mr Mehta over the years and hope to conduct the role with the same passion as
he always did.
Since its inception, CMAI has contributed immensely to the industry, thereby building
a network of committed members and strong support from the Government of India,
the Ministry of Textiles, the Ministry of Finance and other government organisations and
institutions. The strength of CMAI are its members, who have relentlessly worked to have a
strong, unified voice, not only for the betterment of the industry but for the country as a whole.
As a catalyst, the Association will continue to advocate on matters concerning the industry.
Our Textile industry is one of the largest in the world with a large raw-material base and
manufacturing strength across the value chain. We make a significant contribution to our
economy and will continue to do so with all our might. Together, the textiles and apparel
industries continue to be the second-largest employer in the country. We currently provide
employment to 45 million people and this number will increase to 55 million by 2020. The
domestic textiles and apparel industries contribute 2.3% to India’s GDP, and account for 13%
of industrial production and 12% of the country’s export earnings. With continuous efforts,
implementation of strategic business decisions and support of the Government, the industry
is poised to have an extremely positive outlook.
As the industry grows, CMAI plans to work even more closely with the industry members. In
order to do so, other than our current offices in Mumbai, New Delhi, Bengaluru and Pune,
in the coming years, the Association will open offices closer to manufacturing centres pan
India. Closer connectivity to the manufacturing centres will speed up the process of identifying
industry trends, requirements and potential problems, thereby working immediately in tandem
with the Government and other authorities.
Looking back at the contribution put in by all the former Presidents and members associated
with CMAI, I am filled with determination to continue to be a voice of an industry that makes
India one of the world’s largest producers of textiles and apparel.
I would once again like to thank all the members for their support. With the help of each and
every one, I look forward to achieving greater milestones for CMAI.
RAKESH BIYANI
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6
I APPAREL I
December 2019