200 delegates at SDC meet on innovations in Mumbai

The Society of Dyers and Colourists (SDC) EC has organised the 13th International Conference on “Innovations in textile technology and fashion towards circular economy” on June 6, 2018, Hotel Sahara Star, Mumbai. The aim was to bring together and share innovation in the areas of chemical compliance, certification, fashion and business in the textile supply chain. More than 200 delegates from process houses, brands and retailers and fashion and technical educational institutions participated.

SDC EC’s Hon. Trustee Naresh Bhatt was the master of ceremony of the day. In the inaugural session, VR Sai Ganesh, Hon. Chairman of SDC, welcomed all the guests, speakers, panelists and delegates. He gave an overview of the theme and explained the programme for the day. The intention of involving companies for carrying out CSR activities was communicated to the audience. A minute’s silence was observed in the memory of Prof. Ian Holme who was a true visionary for SDC in India and was instrumental in starting the SDC Mumbai Regional Chapter in 1999.

The souvenir was released, this was followed by felicitations and presentation of medals and qualifications. The CCol qualification certificate was presented to Dr Ruma Chakrabarti ASDC CCOL and ASDC certificate was presented to JK Shrivastava of ASDC. Dr Graham Clayton, CEO, SDC UK, shared his view and plan for ‘SDC –Global Vision’. SDC has now moved onto concept of an online virtual learning environment by conducting online courses which contain updated ASDC module material.

The format of this is very much designed to meet the needs of todays’ learners with mobile and 24/7 access, containing manageable material to enable students to ‘earn and learn’. Other material is also available via the colour. Network site will enhance the colour education of many around the world. For example, a free course based on colour communication for design students taking part in the design competition. Colour network enables SDC members and colour interested individuals to focus on meeting and networking at such events. Emphasising on the conference theme, he said for an organisation or company to find smart solutions, it needs to look at three areas: people, operations and technology. The latter is often seen as smart solutions alone. Technology can be exciting and ground breaking.

Chief Guest of the event, Manish Mandhana, Joint MD, Mandhana Industries Ltd, addressed the audience. He talked about the harmful impact of garment manufacturing and discharge of effluents in environment. He emphasised on waste management, audits, committees, safe working environment, facilities to workers in industries and our responsibilities as a citizen. He also talked about CSR aspects of business and his experiences. He shared the work culture of company and ‘Being Human Foundation’ with a video on Being Human.

At the end of the inaugural session, Dr Suman Mundkur, Hon. Secretary, SDC EC, proposed vote of thanks and acknowledged the sponsors’ and patrons of conference with mementos. The conference was supported by CHT India, Bluesign Technologies, X-Rite India, Zenitex, Colourtex Industries, Atul Ltd, A.T.E., Indian Chemical and Ramp Impex. Support from Archroma India, Mirachem Industries, Netflex towards CSR activities was acknowledged.