In a ceremony marked by cultural pride and symbolism, Ms. Vrunda Desai, Hon’ble Textile Commissioner, accepted a Murti of Lord Vithal representing Maharashtrian tradition, on behalf of the Hon’ble Prime Minister, as a gesture of appreciation following the landmark India–EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
The offering was presented by representatives of Kalbadevi, historically recognised as one of Asia’s largest textile trading hubs, reflecting India’s long-standing textile and trading legacy. The delegation included Shri Narendra Podar, Trustee and Immediate Past President of Bharat Merchants’ Chamber; Shri Shiv Kanodia, President, Textile Association of Badlapur; Shri Dilip Maheshwari, President, International Vaish Federation (Mumbai); Shri Ganpat Kothari, President, Rajasthan Foundation; and Shri Praveen and Pratik Churiwal, representing the Bhiwandi textile association.
The India–EU FTA was described as a transformative development for the nation’s economic future, particularly for the textile sector, young entrepreneurs and emerging industries. It is expected to enhance India’s competitiveness, expand global market access and strengthen the country’s position in international trade.
While accepting the Murti, the Textile Commissioner dedicated the achievement to the collective efforts of the Government of India, including the Ministry of Textiles, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, and the Ministry of External Affairs, under the leadership of the Hon’ble Prime Minister.
In her address, she urged the textile industry to actively leverage the opportunities created by the FTA and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the sector’s growth and global expansion. Demonstrating an immediate industry connect, she expressed plans to visit Kalbadevi as well as the textile clusters of Bhiwandi and Badlapur in the near future.
She also addressed young professionals, encouraging them to take an active role in shaping the future of the industry and converting this trade milestone into sustainable success.
The event underscored optimism within the textile fraternity, signalling the beginning of a new growth phase aligned with expanded global engagement under the India–EU FTA.
