Uttarakhand seeks NIFT centre in state

Uttarakhand chief minister Trivendra Singh Rawat has sought setting up of a National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) centre in the state. The establishment of such an institute would inspire the state's youth to amalgamate their traditional knowledge with the latest in modern technology, and help preserve traditional art forms in the region.

"I have demanded an NIFT for Uttarakhand. We also had discussions over possible textile-related projects that could be started in the state," Rawat told media persons after meeting Union textiles minister Smriti Irani in New Delhi.
 
Uttarakhand is known for its woollen products with designs depicting the hills, flora and other traditional art by tribal people from various districts of the state. Hence, setting up of a NIFT centre will help in conserving the traditional art form of the state while creating jobs for the youth, Rawat said.

In absence of such an institute, the traditional arts and crafts are getting lost and there is an urgent need to conserve them, he added.
 
NIFT, set up in 1986 under the aegis of ministry of textiles, is a leader in fashion education with the ability to integrate knowledge, academic freedom, critical independence and creative thinking.

The institute offers degrees in undergraduates, post graduates and doctoral studies with high academic standards through its 16 professionally managed campuses nationwide.