An AI-enabled Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Design and Fashion Technology has been inaugurated in Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, aimed at strengthening India’s apparel manufacturing ecosystem while equipping rural youth with industry-relevant skills.
The facility has been established by the Apparel, Made-Ups & Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council and was inaugurated by Jayant Chaudhary, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship.
Positioned as a hub for innovation, training, and industry collaboration, the Centre introduces eight specialised courses, including Sewing Machine Operator, Self-Employed Tailor, and Fashion Designing and Technology, along with programmes focused on AI integration in apparel.
Strategically located near New Delhi, the CoE is designed to address regional skill gaps by offering training in advanced areas such as AI-driven fashion design, 3D prototyping, smart cutting, supply chain management, pattern making, and embroidery.
Speaking at the launch, Jayant Chaudhary highlighted the initiative as a key step towards aligning skill development with emerging technologies, while creating employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for youth in western Uttar Pradesh.
The facility spans approximately 9,000 square feet and has been developed with an investment of around ₹5 crore. It is equipped with advanced infrastructure, including smart classrooms, AI-enabled sewing machines, CAD-CAM systems, and 3D design software. The integration of simulation-based learning platforms and automated tools creates an industry-like training environment.
A major technological highlight is the use of AI-powered sewing machines capable of detecting fabric type and automatically adjusting parameters such as stitch density, speed, and pressure. This enhances production efficiency, reduces defects, and minimizes material wastage.
Additionally, the Centre features a CAD-CAM-enabled cutting lab with digital pattern-making and CNC-based auto-cutting capabilities, ensuring precision and optimal fabric utilization aligned with global manufacturing standards.
According to A. Sakthivel, the initiative reflects a strong commitment to building a future-ready workforce by integrating smart manufacturing and AI-driven technologies into skill development frameworks.
The Centre also places a strong emphasis on empowering women, enabling them to gain technical expertise, financial independence, and entrepreneurial opportunities within the apparel sector, as highlighted by Ashish Srivastava.
Expected to benefit a large number of youth, particularly from rural communities, the CoE aims to boost employability, promote MSME adoption of advanced technologies, and support sustainable growth in India’s textile and apparel sector.
With backing from the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and industry stakeholders, the initiative is positioned as a model for next-generation skill development in the country.
