1 Dear colleagues, At the outset, on behalf of the Executive ...

<strong>Dear</strong> <strong>colleagues</strong>, 

<strong>At</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>outset</strong>, on behalf of <strong>the</strong> Executive Committee and on my own behalf, I 

welcome all of you to <strong>the</strong> 33 rd Annual General Meeting of your Council. I assumed as 

Chairman of <strong>the</strong> Council for <strong>the</strong> 3 rd time on 07.01.2012, privileged to head <strong>the</strong> 

prestigious Council. 

EXPORT PERFORMANCE 

India’s textile exports were worth US$ 32456 million in 2011-12 as against US$ 

27154 million in 2010-11, an increase of 19.5 per cent from previous year. Apparel 

exports were worth US$ 13699 mn in 2011-12 established, an increase of 17.9% 

percent. Since, RMG sector and textiles recorded similar growth rates, share of 

apparel in <strong>the</strong> textile value chain remained same as last year. RMG sector’s share in 

textile export has been fluctuating, from 46 % in 2006-07 to 51 per cent in 2008-09, 

nosedived to 42 per cent in 2010-11 and remained stagnant at 42% in 2011-12. 

The export performance in 2011-12 had raised hopes for double digit growth this year 

also. However, <strong>the</strong> current FY so far has remained depressed with Indian apparel 

exports for April-July 2012-13 recording a decline of 13% over <strong>the</strong> same period of 

preceding FY. Continuous decline in <strong>the</strong> apparel export of India is due to slow down 

of <strong>the</strong> world economy specifically in EU. USA and EU markets account for 73% 

share in total apparel export of India. 

Indian apparel exports had a 3.2% share in world exports in 2011. EU and USA in <strong>the</strong> 

Jan-June 2012 period have registered decline in <strong>the</strong> apparel import. EU registered 

12.7 per cent decline in apparel import compared to last year while USA registered 

1% decline in apparel import from previous year. This is an indication of slowing 

down of both <strong>the</strong> markets. In both markets Indian garment exports for <strong>the</strong> period of 

Jan-June 2012 declined by 10% and 25% respectively. 

Overall, <strong>the</strong> economy has seen modest growth. High input cost due to rising inflation 

has led to high Labor material cost and fuel prices. Government is conscious of <strong>the</strong> 

development and has also supported <strong>the</strong> textiles sectors through its policy initiatives. 

The Foreign Trade policy has been favorable for <strong>the</strong> garment sector, with continuation 

of Market Linked Focus Product Scheme and interest subvention scheme. AEPC has 

also taken various initiatives to diversifying our markets and trying to tap <strong>the</strong> new 

markets. 

The supplement to Foreign Trade Policy announced by <strong>the</strong> Government has taken 

care of most of industry demands and Ministry of Textiles has revised <strong>the</strong> export 

targets for 2012-13 from US$ 17 billion to US$ 18 billion. 

1

Achievements of our Council 

Following are <strong>the</strong> achievements: 

The continuance of Restructured Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme in <strong>the</strong> 

year 2012-13 

The consideration of Pending cases classifieds as List – II cases in <strong>the</strong> 

committed liability for modified TUFs. 

The invalid 840 cases in TUF refund were taken up for TUF subsidy refund as 

<strong>the</strong> delay had been due to no fault of <strong>the</strong> investor but a consequence of 

irregular monitoring of cases and claims within <strong>the</strong> banking sector. 

In <strong>the</strong> Annual Supplement 2012-13 to <strong>the</strong> Foreign Trade Policy 2009-14, our 

requisition have been fully addressed in <strong>the</strong> first time, 

2% interest subvention availability only for SME units has been now 

extended to readymade garments also upto 31 st March, 2013, 

Extension of 2% duty credit scrip for exports made to Latin America 

and Africa and CIS Countries. 

The inclusion of 7 new markets additionally each in Focus Market 

Scheme (FMS) and Special Focus Market scheme is helpful and 

attractive to explore <strong>the</strong> new markets. 

Zero Duty EPCG scheme has been extended upto 31 st March, 2013. 

Extension of 1% duty credit scrip for Status Holders has been 

accepted. 

24x7 customs clearance at identified Air Cargo Complexes and Sea 

Ports for free shipping bill has been approved. We are trying to extend 

<strong>the</strong> 24x7 customs clearance facility for Drawback Shipping bills also. 

Export credit in Foreign Currency by Banks to exporting units has 

been started. 

RBI has made <strong>the</strong> changes by allowing exporters to cancel and rebook 

forward contracts to <strong>the</strong> extent of 25 percent of <strong>the</strong> total contracts 

booked for hedging <strong>the</strong>ir exposure. 

Ministry of Finance, for <strong>the</strong> first time, announced <strong>the</strong> Service Tax 

refund on <strong>the</strong> lines of Duty Drawback to exporting units and fixed 

0.15% of <strong>the</strong> total FOB value for <strong>the</strong> garments exports, effective from 

3 rd January 2012. After our representation, it was revised upwards to 

0.18%, which came into effect from 1 st July, 2012. 

Debt Restructuring for Textile Industry has been taken up actively. 

2

70% Financial support of Rs.150 lacs for study on Competitiveness in 

Indian Apparel Industry has been approved. 

Setting up of “Exporters’ Felicitation Cell” in AEPC for redressal of 

grievances of exporters. 

Providing Apparel India magazine at discounted price of Rs. 275/- per annum 

Brainstorming Session 

For <strong>the</strong> very first time, AEPC organized a Brainstorming Session; comprising 

small, medium and large exporters, besides Executive Committee Members, 

AEPC to deliberate as to how India’s exports can be taken to US$ 18 Bn in 

this financial year. A number of new ideas have emerged during <strong>the</strong> 

Brainstorming Session and on <strong>the</strong> basis of it, AEPC has made Concept Notes, 

which were presented before <strong>the</strong> Secretary (Textiles) on 16.08.2012. This is 

being pursued fur<strong>the</strong>r for <strong>the</strong> benefit of <strong>the</strong> industry. 

Financial grant for E.P. activities. 

Upscaling of MAI/ MDA support for 2013-14 so that more marketing efforts 

can be made. The Council has received MAI support of Rs.15 Cr. 

New markets 

In order to increase exports from India, following initiatives were taken:- 

- BSM in UK (29-31 Aug, 2012) 

- BSM in Israel (5-6 Sept, 2012) 

-BSM in Russia (11-14 Oct, 2012) 

-Proposed Buyer Seller Meet in Colombia and Panama (18-23 Nov, 2012) 

Proposed Buyer Seller Meet in New York (28-29 Jan, 2013) 

-Proposed Buyer Seller Meet in Australia & New Zealand (Feb 2013) 

Membership of AEPC 

In order to safeguard <strong>the</strong> interest of member exporters took up <strong>the</strong> matter in 

EC, AEPC, Ministry of Textiles and Registrar of Companies for suitable 

amending <strong>the</strong> Memorandum of Article of <strong>the</strong> Council for <strong>the</strong> restoration of old 

RCMC nos. 

Missions 

Initiated Wovenwear Technology Mission, with a financial outlay of Rs. 3057 

lacs, to be set up in <strong>the</strong> 12 th Five Year Plan. 

3

Banking Issues 

Took up following matters: 

Took up <strong>the</strong> matter with RBI on considering <strong>the</strong> blackout period under 

TUFS period 29.06.2012 to 27.04.2011 & making application for term 

loan under TUF be eligible for <strong>the</strong> benefit. 

Separate chapter for export sector for export credit in foreign currency 

LIBOR linked ECB funding for MSME exports 

High margins for forward contracts 

Processing charges for annual renewal of limit 

Cross currency booking; Negotiation charges; Booking charges; Collateral 

and guarantees; Review of system of collaterals and guarantees 

Requisition for 8% interest reimbursement plus 20% capital subsidy to 

syn<strong>the</strong>tic garment machinery under TUFS 

Inter-Ministerial Meeting 

TUF 

Matter taken up with RBI requesting to issue instruction to <strong>the</strong> banks 

confirming that manufacturing units would not fall under NPA norms if 

<strong>the</strong>y avail restructured package. 

<strong>At</strong>tended Group of Officers meeting. With this, Department of Financial 

Services has issued an e-mail directive to Banks to open a special window 

for considering stressed loans for restructuring on a case by case basis. 

Extension of TUF Scheme in <strong>the</strong> 12 th Five Year Plan 

Re-inclusion of wind turbine generator under TUFS 

Duty credit scrip to status holders who availed loan under TUF Scheme 

Requisition to increase <strong>the</strong> investment limit of SME units 

Responsibility entrusted by Govt 

Chairman, AEPC has been inducted as permanent invitee to <strong>the</strong> Cotton 

Yarn Advisory Board (CYAB) by <strong>the</strong> Govt. 

Induction of Chairman, AEPC as <strong>the</strong> member of <strong>the</strong> Working Group on 

<strong>the</strong> Manufacturing Plan strategies for accelerating growth of 

manufacturing in India in 12 th Five Year Plan period and beyond 

4

Issues taken up with various Ministries 

Ministry of Labour / Ministry of Textiles 

Took up <strong>the</strong> matter through MOT/MOL with US Department of Labour in 

<strong>the</strong> matter of child labour and removing of garment from from US 

Executive Order and TVPRA list 

Took up <strong>the</strong> matter with Ministry of Finance for expanding <strong>the</strong> items under 

duty free import of trimmings and embellishments for 24 trims and also for 

13 dyes / dyes chemicals 

Took up <strong>the</strong> issue with CPFC for application of definition of an employee, 

with a view to stress that employees of job working agencies functioning 

for <strong>the</strong> employer outside <strong>the</strong>ir premises, cannot be covered by <strong>the</strong> garment 

exporters. 

Ministry of Finance 

Submitted pre-budget proposals for <strong>the</strong> year 2012-13. Following suggestions were 

submitted: 

- Disallowance of expenditure for non-compliance of TDS provisions 

- Increase in <strong>the</strong> rate of depreciation from <strong>the</strong> assessment year 2011-12 

- Waiver of TDS on foreign agency commission 

- zero custom duty for import of manmade fibers 

- Zero custom duty for machinery 

- Zero excise duty for manmade fibers 

- Requisition to remove excise duty for branded garments 

- Duty free import entitlement of specified trimmings & embellishment 

which is 5% of FOB value of exports during previous financial year for 

handloom and handloom made-ups, be extended to garment sector to 

<strong>the</strong> extent of 5% (Now 3%). 

Bilateral Trade Agreement 

Matter taken up with Hon’ble Minister of Textiles, Commerce and 

Industry for immediately finalization of FTA with EU. It has fur<strong>the</strong>r been 

recommended that Agreement on Textile & Clothing be finalized ahead of 

full FTA. 

Matter taken up with Ministry of Textiles regarding elimination of 

negative list items of <strong>the</strong> textiles and clothing sector from SAFTA negative 

list in favour of Pakistan. 

5

EXPORT PROMOTION 

BUYER SELLER MEET 

Buyer Seller Meet – South Africa:- AEPC was <strong>the</strong> lead Council in Buyer Seller 

Meet in Cape Town (23-24 February, 2012) and Johannesburg (27-28 February, 

2012) in South Africa with 68 participants. 

Buyer Seller Meet – Chile & Uruguay:- The Council organized a Buyer Seller Meet 

in Santiago, Chile (15-16 March, 2012) and Uruguay, Monte Video (19-20 March, 

2012) with 22 participants. 

Buyer Seller Meet at Stockholm, (Sweden); Oslo (Norway) and Copenhagen 

(Denmark):- The Council organized first time a Buyer Seller Meet at Stockholm, 

(Sweden); Oslo (Norway) and Copenhagen (Denmark from 13th – 20th June, 2012 

with 9 participants. 

INTERNATIONAL FAIRS 

The Council participated in following EP events. 

Hong Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong [16-19, January, 2012]:- The Council 

participated with 70 participants. 

Intermoda International Apparel & Textile Fair, Guadalajara, Mexico [17-20 

January, 2012] 

The Council participated with 19 participants. 

Magic Fair, Las Vegas, USA and Washington [12-15 February, 2012]:- The 

Council participated with 46 participants. 

Asia Garment Expo, Berlin, Germany [21-23 February, 2012):- The Council 


Brand India Expo, in Ottawa, Canada [13-14 March, 2012]:- The Council 


Bangkok International Fashion Fair(BIFF)- Thailand [27th June – 1st July, 

2012]:- The Council participated with 04 participants. 

Hong Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong [3-6 July, 2012]:- The Council participated 


JFW International Fashion Fair (IFF), Tokyo, Japan [18-20 July, 2012]:- The 

Council participated with 155booths. 

Magic Fair, Las Vegas, USA [20-23 August, 2012]:- The Council participated with 

57 participants. 

6

London Garment Expo, London [ 29-31 August, 2012]:- The Council participated 


India International Apparel & Textile Trade Show at Tel Aviv, Israel [5th and 

6th September, 2012]:- The Council participated with 30 participants. 

HIGH LEVEL TRADE DELEGATIONS 

High Level Trade Delegation to Hong Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong [16-19 

January, 2012]:- Two members delegation visited to Hong Kong to attend <strong>the</strong> Hong 

Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong. 

High Level Trade Delegation to Budapest, Hungary [23 - 24 February, 2012] :- 

Five members delegation visited Budapest, Hungary. The delegation first visited at 

Asia Apparel Expo at Berlin and later undertook explanatory visit to Hungary. 

One member delegation to India Clothing & Textile Trade Show in South Africa 

[23-28 February 2012]:- One Member delegation visited South Africa to attend 

India Clothing & Textile Trade Show at Cape Town from 23-24 February and at 

Johannesburg from 27-28 February, 2012. 

High Level Trade Delegation to Chile & Uruguay [15-20 March, 2012] :- Two 

members delegation visited Santiago, Chile from 15-16 March, 2012 and Montevideo, 

Uruguay from 19-20 March, 2012. 

High Level Trade Delegation to Stockholm, (Sweden); Oslo (Norway) and 

Copenhagen (Denmark) from 13th – 20th June, 2012:- A five members delegation 

visited to Stockholm, (Sweden); Oslo (Norway) and Copenhagen (Denmark) from 

13th – 20th June, 2012. 

High Level Trade Delegation to Hong Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong [3-6 

July, 2012]:- Two members delegation visited Hong Kong to attend <strong>the</strong> Hong Kong 

Fashion Week, Hong Kong. 

High Level Trade Delegation to Japan [18-20 July, 2012]:- Three members 

delegation visited to Japan to attend <strong>the</strong> JFW Fashion Fair, Japan under <strong>the</strong> 

Chairpersonship of Secretary (Textiles). 

High Level Trade Delegation to Las Vegas & New York. USA [20-27 August, 

2012]:- Two members delegation visited to attend Magic Fair, Las Vegas, USA. The 

delegation also visited New York for organization of Buyer Seller Meet in New York 

during January 2013.. 

High Level Trade Delegation to London Garment Expo, London [ 29-31 August, 

2012]:- Two members delegation visited to London Garment Expo, London from 29- 

31 August, 2012. 

High Level Trade Delegation to India International Apparel & Textile Trade 

Show at Tel Aviv, Israel [ 5 th and 6 th September, 2012]:- One Member delegation 

visited to attend India International Apparel & Textile Trade Show at Tel Aviv, 

Israel [ 5 th and 6 th September, 2012] under <strong>the</strong> Chairpersonship of Secretary 

(Textiles). 

7

DOMESTIC EVENTS 

Tex-Trends India, New Delhi, India (19-21 January, 2012) AEPC, as <strong>the</strong> Lead 

Council organized 2nd edition of Tex - Trends India 2012, AEPC participated with 

381 participants. Shri Anand Sharma, Hon’ble Minister for Commerce, Industry and 

Textiles inaugurated <strong>the</strong> fair. 

Tex-Trends India, New Delhi, India (16-18 July, 2012) AEPC, as <strong>the</strong> Lead Council 

organized 3 rd Tex-Trends India on 16-18 th July, 2012 with 379 participants. The fair 

was inaugurated by Shri Anand Sharma, Hon'ble Union Minister for Commerce, 

Industry and Textiles on 16.7.2012. 

Source Zone 

(a) AEPC organized Source Zone on 9-11 th November during 2011. It was 

attended by 104 participated. 

(b) We are also organizing Source Zone at Apparel House from 5 th – 7 th 

November, 2012. A dedicated website has been launched 

(www.sourcezonefair.com) for <strong>the</strong> promotion of Source Zone. 

CHILD LABOUR ISSUE RAISED BY US DEPARTMENT. 

A high level Indian delegation under <strong>the</strong> chairmanship of Shri V Srinivas, JS 

(Exports) visited Washington from 14-16th Feb., 2012 to attend <strong>the</strong> public hearing 

conducted by USDOL on February 15, 2012. 

A detailed presentation was made by Chairman AEPC covering progress achieved in 

launching <strong>the</strong> DISHA program in Dec., 2011 and on <strong>the</strong> dipstick study undertaken by 

NITRA. 

AEPC has submitted a detailed submission/response in April 2012 to <strong>the</strong> US Dept. of 

Labor regarding <strong>the</strong> issue of child labor and forced labor. 

The development of DISHA programme received a positive response in <strong>the</strong> meetings. 

USDOL has thanked AEPC for information about ongoing initiatives to combat child 

labor in <strong>the</strong> garment industry, particularly through DISHA programme and proactive 

efforts taken by <strong>the</strong> Council. USDOL has encouraged AEPC to continue to share 

information about <strong>the</strong>se initiatives. 

Revision of Duty Drawback 

After collecting and compiling comprehensive cost and consumption data from <strong>the</strong> 

garment manufacturer exporters spread across <strong>the</strong> country, Council has submitted its 

recommendations to increase of DBK rate. We have also submitted a proposal for 

simplification for in tariff items & value cap to reduce from 201 to 3 numbers as same 

rate of drawback to Garments of Cotton, Blend and MMF are allowed on 201 Tariff 

items of Chapter 61 & 62. 

The proposed DBK rate for <strong>the</strong> year 2012-13 are 10.27 % of fob for Cotton/O<strong>the</strong>rs 

garments, 11.21% for Blended garment and 12.53% for Man Made Fibers garments. 

8

DISHA 

DISHA, AEPC’s flagship programme for capacity building and greater awareness on 

social compliance issues in apparel sector, was launched on December 2011. Council 

initiated cluster level orientation cum awareness workshops in various regions – 

Tirupur, Chennai, Bangalore, Mumbai, Ludhiana, Jaipur, New Delhi and Kolkata. A 

total of 598 companies attended <strong>the</strong> various launch shows and a significant buzz was 

created in <strong>the</strong> export manufacturing community. 

Through <strong>the</strong> enrollment workshops and o<strong>the</strong>r promotional programs throughout <strong>the</strong> 

country, over 140 apparel manufacturing units enrolled so far to <strong>the</strong> DISHA program. 

The participating members were allotted with a unique username and password which 

allows <strong>the</strong>m to access DISHA website and online tool kits. 

DISHA Team members visited factories and clusters to handhold and help <strong>the</strong>m to 

fill up <strong>the</strong> SAT and QAQ. They collected 86 factory’s SAT and QAQs were compiled 

cluster wise and analysed by experts of DISHA. The core issues of units are identified 

cluster wise which are incorporated for preparing training tools. 

Council has initiated lot of activities towards global endorsement of <strong>the</strong> DISHA 

program. The Indian Apparel Industry Stakeholders Roundtable Consultation on 

Compliance Challenges was held on 25th of April 2012 at India Habitat Center, New 

Delhi. There were representative from Trade Unions, NGOs, major buying brands, 

buying houses, manufacturers, Intl. Organizations viz. ILO, BSCI, SAI etc. 

Various Embassies/High Commissions of RMG sourcing countries have been 

contacted and informed <strong>the</strong>m about <strong>the</strong> DISHA program and its activities among <strong>the</strong> 

apparel manufacturing units. All <strong>the</strong> State Chief Secretaries and Labour 

Commissioners have been requested for <strong>the</strong>ir cooperation and involvement in <strong>the</strong> 

DISHA scheme. 

Mean time <strong>the</strong> Lead Agency, M/s T Group withdrawn from <strong>the</strong> project as <strong>the</strong>y were 

not able to keep <strong>the</strong> time line and resources as agreed in <strong>the</strong> contract. 

Council constituted an Adhoc cell of DISHA within AEPC to implement <strong>the</strong> program 

through trainer experts by hiring <strong>the</strong>ir services on contract basis. 

Accordingly a new operation plan is prepared and entered into a MoU with GIZ for 

partnering with AEPC and in turn GIZ shall provide advisory technical services 

through CRB. AEPC has also signed an agreement with CRB for <strong>the</strong> services to be 

received through <strong>the</strong>ir trainer experts/consultants. 

As per <strong>the</strong> revised operational plan, <strong>the</strong> target of 400 units is proposed to be 

completed by 31.12.2012 with certification as recommended by <strong>the</strong> impact 

assessment agencies. 

Council has enhanced Core Team of DISHA to 45 member including members from 

<strong>the</strong> trade and AEPC officials. 

9

After preparing <strong>the</strong> base documents of DISHA, 2 Training of Trainers sessions were 

organized with an objective of teaching practical skills and knowledge that relate to 

training competency. ToT’s were 4 full day programs and were held at Bhiwadi & 

Bangalore respectively with a total 49 trainees. 

From 7 th September, 2012 onwards, DISHA trained trainers along with one lead 

trainer are visiting factories across India for <strong>the</strong> pilot factory orientation program. 

ONLINE REGISTRATION SYSTEM OF RCMC 

The online registration of RCMC implemented with effect from 1 st June, 2012 is 

steadily working in all <strong>the</strong> offices located throughout India. 

With <strong>the</strong> introduction of <strong>the</strong> system it is helping <strong>the</strong> exporters in many ways. Some of 

which are as follows: 

The service is available at <strong>the</strong>ir doorsteps 24hrs x 7 days and <strong>the</strong>y can log in as 

and when required. 

It reduces number of visit to <strong>the</strong> offices of <strong>the</strong> Council. 

It reduces manpower costs, as <strong>the</strong> exporter can <strong>the</strong>mselves log in for <strong>the</strong> same. 

It is saving time and money spend on seeking information from <strong>the</strong> Council as all 

<strong>the</strong> relevant information is available in <strong>the</strong> system itself. 

 

The RCMC can be printed on by members at own and can be saved in <strong>the</strong>ir data 

and no problem even if it is misplaced as <strong>the</strong>y can take a new print wherever it is 

required. 

The system automatically sends information related to RCMC, payment receipt 

etc and also <strong>the</strong> exporter <strong>the</strong>mselves can generate <strong>the</strong> receipt pertaining to Annual 

Subscription payments. 

KNITWEAR TECHNOLOGY MISSION 

The Knitwear Technology Mission (KTM) Tirupur would provide various support 

services to <strong>the</strong> industry including knowledge service (market information about 

knitwear), testing & certification, research, training & education, design services and 

investor facilitation services like technology selection etc. 

Infrastructure created for Knitwear Technology Mission (KTM), Tirupur to produce 

new blended fabrics. 

The KTM would function as an autonomous self sustaining organization on “no-profit 

no-loss” model. The services would be provided to <strong>the</strong> industry based on industry 

requirements with <strong>the</strong> required cost charged. 

For setting up <strong>the</strong> KTM an initial funding of Rs. 5 crore has been provided by <strong>the</strong> 

Government to cover <strong>the</strong> project cost. The centre should be set up in Tirupur to start 

with since it is <strong>the</strong> biggest knitwear cluster in India and later on more centers could be 

set up for R&D in o<strong>the</strong>r cities like Kolkata & Ludhiana. 

10

ASSET MANAGEMENT 

The Council has pursued following construction selected activities. 

Faridabad Construction Project (Haryana) 

• The plot area is 1990 sq.mtr. (i.e. 21412 sq.ft.) 

• The area covered is 28094 sq.ft. consisting of basement + ground + 3 floors. 

• Budget: Rs. 4.79 crore 

• Fire-fighting, external electrical and interior work is under progress. 

• External Development work has been commenced. 

• The project is likely to ready by end of 2012. 

Immlikhera Construction Project, Chindwara (MP) (Phase I; Administrative 

Block) 

• The plot area is 5 acre. 

• Administrative Block under Phase I is constructed covering of 22,000 sq.ft. of 

area consisting of ground and 1st floor. 

• Phase I Project has been completed. The building has been handed over to 

ATDC on 25.08.2012. 

Immlikhera Construction Project, Chindwara (MP) (Phase II ; Hostel Block) 

• Tender documents for construction of Hostel Block under Phase II project 

have been invited. External Development work is in process. 

Patliputra Construction Project, Patna (Bihar) 

• The plot area is 11,000 sq.ft. 

• The construction area under Phase I will be covered 768 sq.mtr. (i.e. 8264 

sq.ft.) consisting of basement and ground floor. 

• The construction area under Phase II will be covered 1473 sq.mtr. (i.e. 15849 

sq.ft.) consisting of 1st , 2nd & 3 floors. 

• Preparation of BOQ for various head (civil, plumbing, sanitary, internal & 

external electrical, fire-fighting, external development work) is in progress. 

Kolkata Project 

• Govt. of West Bengal sanctioned a land of 3.88 acre in Salt Lake to West 

Bengal State Export Promotion Society (WBSEPS). 

• A MOU received from WBSEPS for Joint Venture Company in project with 

AEPC. 

• The proposed investment shall be to <strong>the</strong> tune of Rs. 40 crores. 

• Chairman, AEPC organized an Exporters’ Meet on 08.06.2012 and persuaded 

exporters of Kolkata to come forward and participate in <strong>the</strong> project. A number 

of Kolkata based exporters have shown <strong>the</strong>ir interest in equity participation. 

Nearly 4 lac sq. ft space can be created. 

11

INSTITUTE OF APPAREL MANAGEMENT 

IAM positioned as a Multi-Varsity over <strong>the</strong> last 5 years has been instrumental in 

training Professionals in managerial cadre based on <strong>the</strong> changing needs & dynamics 

of <strong>the</strong> Apparel Industry in a Global Context. IAM offers full-time International 

Degree/ Diploma programs in collaboration with leading International Bodies/ 

Universities like Edexcel, University of Wolverhampton, UK, Mod’Spe, Paris, 

(supported by French ready-to-wear federation) and SMR University, Sansepolcro, 

Italy and is in <strong>the</strong> process of introducing bridge programmes with Manchester 

Metropolitan University, UK. IAM aims at training <strong>the</strong> next generation of Design 

Managers, Digital Merchandisers, Apparel Technocrats with hands on exposure on 

latest “digital platforms”. 

During <strong>the</strong> year, IAM also introduced 2 paid services to help <strong>the</strong> staff working in 

export houses to access huge resources i.e. Knowledge Management and Resource 

Center (KMRC) and Fashion Innovation Lab (FIL). 

The Pro-up centre’s initiatives were launched on 28th February, 2012 during <strong>the</strong> 

Workshop on “Innovative Strategies for Success in Retail” at IAM Campus, Apparel 

House, Gurgaon. Fashion Innovation Lab (FIL) at IAM introduced a series of 

training programmes on Digital Pattern Making & e-fit for Pattern Masters. 

As a part of overseas study arrangement, 9-students of FDM/AMM and faculty visited 

Mod’Spe, Paris as a part of study abroad trip from 14th June 2012 till 31st July, 2012. 

The placement week was successfully organized from Jan 17-20th Jan,2012. More 

than 25 companies from <strong>the</strong> apparel and fashion sector registered with IICU for 

participation in <strong>the</strong> placement week. There was uniform representation of 

organizations covering <strong>the</strong> entire fashion sector – export, retail, brands, design houses 

& E-Commerce ventures. 

APPAREL TRAINING & DESIGN CENTRE 

The Apparel Training & Design Centre (ATDC) has set up 25 ATDC-IGNOU 

Community Colleges since Jan 2010 and is acting as a Nodal Agency for 

implementing <strong>the</strong> Integrated Skill Development Project of MOT, GOI since Oct.2010. 

Since 2009 until now over 60,000 candidates have been trained under <strong>the</strong> ATDC- 

IGNOU Community College (AICC) and ATDC-SMART centres. 

ATDC is offering Certificate, Diploma & Associate Degree/ Advanced Diploma 

Programmes and 6 Certificate Programmes covering <strong>the</strong> major trades like Sewing 

Machine Operator, Finishers& Packers, Quality Checkers, Machine Technicians, etc. 

under its banner. This would fur<strong>the</strong>r be expanded to a total of 150 SMART Centres 

and Skill Camps by March 2013, as per <strong>the</strong> current plans. ATDC also added 2 

Training of Trainers’ Academies in North & South India in Gurgaon and 

Thiruvananthapuram respectively and plans to add ano<strong>the</strong>r in Chhindwara, Central 

India. 

12

In 2011-12 ATDC-IGNOU Community Colleges registered over 3000 candidates thus 

having cumulatively over 5501 candidates till date. Pan-India implementation of 

SMART Training Project under ISDS of MOT, GOI has progressed well in sync with 

<strong>the</strong> target and exceeded <strong>the</strong> target of 14000 candidates set by MoT for <strong>the</strong> first year of 

implementation. ATDC have successfully trained 14472 candidates against <strong>the</strong> target 

of 14000 for <strong>the</strong> year ending on 31st March 2012 with placement of 75% candidates 

(40% placed in medium/large Apparel Export units and domestic manufacturing units 

and 35% have been placed in unorganized garment units, self-help groups or are selfemployed). 

The Apparel Training & Design Centre was awarded “Best Skill Provider at UK-India 

Skills Forum Award-2011” for its outstanding commitment to <strong>the</strong> skills agenda in 

India. 

The Ministry of Textiles will continue <strong>the</strong> Integrated Skill Development Scheme 

under <strong>the</strong> 12 th FYP. As <strong>the</strong> pilot project period ends in March 2013, <strong>the</strong>re are likely to 

be some changes in <strong>the</strong> Institutional Framework governing <strong>the</strong> implementation of <strong>the</strong> 

scheme. The Ministry is expected to set up an Apex “Textile and Apparel Sectororal 

Skill Council” supported by Resource Support Agencies under <strong>the</strong> scheme to ensure 

scaling up of not only <strong>the</strong> operations but also <strong>the</strong> quality. ATDC plans to submit a 

fresh proposal with a target to train 2.50 lacs candidates over <strong>the</strong> five years period by 

upgrading <strong>the</strong> capacities of existing centres as well as setting up new Centres / Skill 

Camps. The plan is to upgrade <strong>the</strong> number of machines in Centres / Skill Camps apart 

from introducing Knitwear Courses in more Centres in <strong>the</strong> country. The number of 

Centres will be increased from 125 to 250 in <strong>the</strong> next 2 years. The total outlay being 

sought by ATDC from Govt. of India is to <strong>the</strong> tune of Rs. 300 Crores over <strong>the</strong> 12 th 

FYP. The three TOT Academies being established under ATDC will have to be 

carved out as a separate entity for acting as a ‘Resource Support Agency’ to provide 

curricula, Training of Trainers, Digital Contents, outline-support and o<strong>the</strong>r services 

going forward to all implementing agencies. Plans are also afoot to improve realtime 

connectivity through an ERP system which will go live by October 2012. The 

innovation and design capabilities which will be upgraded by setting up Product 

Speciality Centres in select ATDC Hubs to help exporters to diversify into new 

product categories with <strong>the</strong> help of technically qualified personnel and trained 

shopfloor workforce. 

HUMAN RESOURCE ACTIVITIES 

Skill Assessment Cell 

The Director General of Employment and Training ( DGE & T), a nodal agency of <strong>the</strong> 

Ministry has empanelled AEPC as assessing body under its skill development 

initiatives scheme (SDI) for all states / Union Territories in Apparel / Garment making , 

Khadi and Carpet sector. 

AEPC Skill Assessment cell has full fledged resource and infrastructure to control its 

Pan India branch offices. AEPC Skill assessment cell has 6 Regional offices and 22 

State offices to conduct assessment. The assessment will help in boosting <strong>the</strong> morale, 

uplifting <strong>the</strong> social status of <strong>the</strong> candidate, and making <strong>the</strong> workforce a certified skill 

pool. AEPC Skill Assessment Cell has assessed 1514 candidates in <strong>the</strong> year 2011 – 12. 

13

In houseTraining and Development 

A training programme was conducted for middle level management on <strong>the</strong> topic – 

“Effective Communication”. The programme benefited <strong>the</strong> employees by giving <strong>the</strong>m 

a holistic view about how to channel <strong>the</strong>ir communication skills for giving <strong>the</strong>m 

maximum benefit. 

SA 8000 – 2008 Certificate 

AEPC has acquired SA 8000 – 2008 to ensure social accountability and to provide 

international human rights norms to its workforce. 

ISO 9001: 2008 

ISO 9001: 2008 was acquired to ensure quality management and to bring in <strong>the</strong> 

positive effect on <strong>the</strong> efficient and effective operation, promotion of international 

trade and to increase <strong>the</strong> productivity of its resources. 

APPAREL HOUSE 

For publicity of Apparel House and for <strong>the</strong> benefit of showroom holders leaflets were 

distributed to buyers and standees were displayed at domestic and International fairs 

in which Council had participated. 

During <strong>the</strong> overseas fairs at AEPC’s booth, standee of Apparel International mart 

displaying highlights of <strong>the</strong> showrooms were displayed, A dedicated website has been 

launched (apparelhouseindia.com) for promotion of showroom. 

India Market Days 25 th – 26 th April 2012 and 5 th -6 th September 2012 were organized 

at Apparel House Gurgaon with <strong>the</strong> support of MAI funds, Govt. of India. Fur<strong>the</strong>r, <strong>the</strong> 

Council has also planned to organize market days during 5 th -6 th November 2012. 

OUR VISION 

Our vision is to intensify skill development initiatives through ATDCs, provide 

professionals and experts through Institute of Apparel Management, to have 

compliant garment factories through <strong>the</strong> project DISHA, upgrade <strong>the</strong> technology, 

increase <strong>the</strong> level of productivity, to increase competitiveness, diversification of 

export markets as well as export products with a view to attain <strong>the</strong> export target of 

US$ 18 Bn in <strong>the</strong> current financial year and to double our exports in <strong>the</strong> XII Five Year 

Plan. 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

I wish to place on record my heartfelt sincere thanks to Shri Anand Sharma, <strong>the</strong> 

Hon’ble Union Minister of Commerce, Industry and Textiles, who has wholeheartedly 

supported various recommendations of <strong>the</strong> Council. The Hon’ble Minister has 

14

encouraged <strong>the</strong> garment export industry to perform better and has given best ever 

benefits under Foreign Trade Policy. 

I welcome our Hon’ble new Finance Minister Mr. P. Chidambaram and it is 

heartwarming to note that <strong>the</strong> Hon’ble Finance Minister has already hinted about 

taking appropriate measures like interest rate cut and also promised to look after <strong>the</strong> 

growth of exports. 

I also wish to place on record my heartfelt thanks to Smt. Panabaaka Lakshmi, 

Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles and Shri Jyotiraditya M Scindia, Hon’ble 

Minister of State for Commerce and Industry for <strong>the</strong>ir wholeheartedly support. 

I place on record our gratitude and sincere thanks to Mrs Kiran Dhingra, IAS, 

Secretary (Textiles) for continuous support in <strong>the</strong> fur<strong>the</strong>rance of garment exports from 

India. 

I also take this opportunity to place on record my sincere thanks to Mrs Rita 

Menon,IAS, former Secretary (Textiles). 

I wish to place on record my sincere thanks to Shri V Srinivas,IAS, Joint Secretary 

(Exports), Ministry of Textiles, who has guided AEPC in <strong>the</strong> matter of export 

promotion and o<strong>the</strong>r policy related issues. The Council sought guidance from him 

from time to time in <strong>the</strong> matters of organization of Tex Trends India, matters related 

to United States Department of Labour (USDOL) & various projects of <strong>the</strong> Council 

like KTM, DISHA, Skill etc. 

I wish to place on record my sincere thanks to Shri S R Rao,IAS, Commerce 

Secretary, Dr Anup K Pujari,IAS, DGFT and o<strong>the</strong>r officers of <strong>the</strong> Ministry of 

Commerce for <strong>the</strong>ir continued support and cooperation. 

I am also grateful to <strong>the</strong> officers of Ministry of Finance, Office of Textile 

Commissioner, Textiles Committee, Central Board of Excise and Customs and o<strong>the</strong>r 

officers of Government of India for <strong>the</strong>ir coordination for various export promotion 

activities of <strong>the</strong> Council. 

My heartfelt thanks to Shri Ashok G Rajani, Senior Vice Chairman, Shri H K L 

Magu, Vice Chairman (Nor<strong>the</strong>rn Region), Shri Ashok Logani, Vice Chairman 

(Eastern Region) for <strong>the</strong>ir support. 

I wish to place on record my sincere appreciation to all Committee Chairmen for <strong>the</strong>ir 

efforts and sincerity in working of AEPC. 

My heartfelt thanks to Shri Sudhir Sekhri, Chairman (Export Promotion), 

Shri Praveen Nayyar, Chairman, CCC-DISHA Sub Committee, Shri Harish Ahuja, 

Chairman, Coordination Committee, Shri Rakesh Vaid, Chairman, Innovative 

Garment Technology Mission, Shri Premal Udani, Chairman, Task Force on 

Competitiveness of India’s Apparel Export, Shri Gautam Nair, Chairman, State 

Partnership Sub-Committee (Nor<strong>the</strong>rn Region) and my o<strong>the</strong>r fellow Executive 

Committee Members, Govt. Nominees, Co-opted members, Permanent Invitees & 

15

Special Invitees for encouraging me to take necessary steps through which certain 

achievements could be initiated and accomplished. 

My special appreciation to Mr. Virender Uppal, who helps me to resolve <strong>the</strong> issue 

whenever I am in need. 

I also wish to place on record my special appreciation for Mr. Vijay Mathur, Acting 

Secretary General, who is helping me in all my endeavors. 

My appreciation also goes to Senior Director, Directors, General Managers and all 

o<strong>the</strong>r officials & staff of AEPC for <strong>the</strong>ir commitments to AEPC. 

As I conclude , may I on behalf of <strong>the</strong> Executive Committee and <strong>the</strong> employees of <strong>the</strong> 

Council once again thank you for our members for having confidence on me and to 

elect me 3 rd time as a Chairman of this Internationally known Council. 

(A Sakthivel) 

Chairman, AEPC 

16

1 Dear colleagues, At the outset, on behalf of the Executive ...

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