The event was marked by enthusiastic participation from faculty members, research scholars, postgraduate students, and industry professionals.
The Department of Fibres and Textile Processing Technology of the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, organized a one-day technical conference on 5 April 2025 aimed at fostering academic-industry collaboration and knowledge exchange in the field of textile materials, functional innovations, sustainability, and advanced processing technologies.
The conference brought together distinguished researchers, academicians, and industry experts to deliberate on current trends, emerging technologies, and the future roadmap of the textile sector. The event was marked by enthusiastic participation from faculty members, research scholars, postgraduate students, and industry professionals.
Inaugural session
The event began with a ceremonial lighting of the lamp and a rendition of the Vidyapeeth Geet, followed by the Welcome Address by Prof Ashok Athalye, Head of the Department of Fibres and Textile Processing Technology.
Padma Bhushan, Chancellor, and Emeritus Professor of Eminence, Prof J B Joshi, ICT Mumbai, addressed the gathering and emphasized the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and sustainable practices in textile research and development.
Prof R D Kale introduced the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker, Umasankar Mahapatra, Managing Director of Pulcra Chemicals India, who delivered an insightful keynote address highlighting global trends in functional textile chemicals, innovation in product development, and sustainability in chemical processing.
Dr Santosh Biranje provided an overview of the conference, outlining its objectives and the importance of bringing together stakeholders from academia, industry, and research to foster innovation in textile sciences.
Technical sessions
Session 1: Advances in textile materials & processing
This session focused on cutting-edge research and innovations shaping the textile industry.
- Dr S K Shukla, Director (ICAR-CIRCOT) – CIRCOT’s Contributions in Cotton Research
- Dr Neha Mehra, HoD Textile Engineering (VJTI) –Development of Multifunctional Finishing on Cotton Using Essential Oil
Session 2: Specialised applications in textiles
This session featured innovative topics from leading research institutions:
- Atharvan Deshpande (WRA) – Wool Blended Denim Fabric: Stretchable & Non-Stretchable Characterization
- Dr T V Sreekumar, Director (BTRA) – High-performance Fibers and Flame Retardant Materials
- Mr. P. Surwase, Scientist C (SASMIRA) – Agrotextiles for Climate Resilient Agriculture
- Dr. P. Goyal, HoD Textile Home Science (Nirmala Niketan) – Sustainable Research in Textile and Fashion
Session 3: Textile design, functionality & sustainability
The final session explored forward-thinking in design and sustainability:
- Dr Akansha Nautiyal, Assistant Professor (NIFT, Mumbai) – Innovative Pathways in Textiles and Fashion
- Dr Sandeep More, Assistant Professor (ICT Mumbai) – Functional Colourants for High-Performance Textiles
The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr Pallavi Badhe, followed by closing remarks. Participants appreciated the platform for its insightful discourse and opportunities for networking and collaboration.
The conference was a resounding success, offering valuable insights into the current state and future potential of the textile industry. The Department of Fibres and Textile Processing Technology is committed to promoting research, innovation, and industry engagement excellence.