FACTORS AFFECTING INDIAN APPAREL INDUSTRY

Abstract

The apparel industry is one of India's most important economic sectors and the country's utmost basis of foreign exchange. The textile sector employs more than forty million citizens of India, making it the country's largest employer. Indian people living in diverse areas with their own traditions and customs, as a result of which diverse and unique attire with a lengthy history can be seen. Textiles and clothing from India have a long tradition of excellent craftsmanship and worldwide appeal. India's cotton, silk, and denim are very popular internationally, and with the rise of Indian design skill, Indian clothing has also found success in the world's fashion capitals. With an extensive raw material and manufacturing base, India's textile and garment sector is one of the world's largest. Unstitched clothes account for US$ 8.307 billion of the country's current textile sector, which is valued at US$ 33.23 billion. In terms of domestic share and exports, the industry makes a considerable contribution to the economy. In 2013-14, it accounted for 14% of total industrial output and 4.78 percent of total exports. The Textile Ministry has made positive initiatives to aid apparel exporters in overcoming the effects of the global crisis, as well as rising yarn and fabric prices. The fibre strategy encourages apparel exporters to conduct business with worldwide markets by offering a diverse range of things made from innovative fibres and textiles. Globalization, or the increased engagement of local economies with those of other nations, is represented in the rising percentage of international commerce. Clothing exports are growing faster than any other type of commerce goods. Increased attention and suitable incentives might help India's garment business outperform its global counterparts. There are several classes in our society, each with their own manner of wearing and living. When discussing society, we must take into account all socioeconomic groups. The clothes we wear reflect our personalities. India has 7 seen a shift in recent years, not just in terms of economic standards but also in terms of sociocultural issues. Traditional values, conventions, and behaviors are being replaced with ideals that are more Westernized and global. Our young generation's and designers' fresh inventions and ability are deserving of praise. They have given Indian trends a new name on a global scale. The fashion trends are influenced by various factors such as Peer groups, Education level, Mass media Climate, Social media,Customs and Traditions, Mass media, Exposure, Religion, Hobbies, Financial conditions, Changing trends and Values, Family members' influence, Age, etc which I have discussed further in the project. Furthermore, I have discussed “Sustainable Fashion”. It is basically apparel that is designed, manufactured and consumed in ecologically beneficial manner is referred to as sustainable fashion. This research sheds light on a brand named “SUTA” which houses handwoven sarees which promote sustainable and environment friendly apparel. A survey has also been conducted with 100 university students to gauge their opinion on fashion trends, sustainable fashion, supporting local artisans and apparel on E commerce platforms. In this project I will shed light on the following  researching developing trends in India's garment industry.  concept of Sustainable fashion and brands that are promoting it  encouraging local artisans and craftspeople and using local products  transition from shopping apparel physically in stores to E commerce platforms  examining the societal difficulties posed by fashion trends and their influence in India