President of India Droupadi Murmu graced the combined convocation ceremony of 18 National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) campuses in New Delhi on August 31, 2026. In her address, she emphasized that the textile and apparel sector represents both India's cultural heritage and the livelihood backbone for millions of people. The President noted that various NIFT centers have implemented programs like the 'Craft Cluster Initiative' to acquaint traditional weavers and artisans with modern techniques in the textile sector and connect them with markets, encouraging next generations to remain engaged in the profession with pride and confidence.
Murmu stated that fashion technology has immense potential to enhance India's global footprint as the country expands its role on the global stage with greater confidence. She urged graduating students to maintain a global outlook while remaining firmly connected to their roots and core cultural values, which would contribute to both their professional success and the preservation of India's cultural heritage. The President emphasized the importance of creating eco-friendly, world-class products and brands, recommending the use of locally available raw materials as a significant step toward environmental conservation.
She highlighted that NIFT's policymakers have accorded significant importance to sustainability and social responsibility within the institute's strategic plan, expressing confidence that NIFT would take effective steps to make circular economy practices widespread and beneficial. Remnants should not be discarded as waste but given new form, utility, and value. The President underlined that youth will play a pivotal role in achieving the Viksit Bharat goal by 2047, urging NIFT students to contribute to building a society where every citizen has fair opportunity to participate in national progress, particularly by helping artisans enhance productivity and income while preserving the authentic identity of their craft.