The Federation of Hosiery Manufacturers Association of India (FOHMA) organized an event for the Golden Jubilee Celebrations in Kolkata.

The body started as a small entity in 1972. Over the years, it has now become an apex body of national importance. It is also recognized by the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India.

As part of the celebrations, an industry-focused conference was organized. It saw the presence of eminent speakers, followed by a product exhibition and a cultural program.

Present President of FOHMA, K. B. Agarwal along with other managing committee members of FOHMA graced the event.

Smt Darshana Vikram Jardosh, Hon’ble Minister of State for Textiles & Railways, Government of India along with Smt Roop Rashi, Textile Commissioner, Ministry of Textiles, Government of India graced the event.

The activities of FOHMA are multi-dimensional and focus on every essential aspect of the Indian Hosiery industry. The body works closely with the State and Central governments to raise issues of concern and provide feedback to improve the condition of the textile industry.

Some of the things that FOHMA wants the textile ministry to consider were:

• Exemption of the textile and hosiery industry from filing ITC-04 Returns with respect to the job.
• Developing a mechanism for bringing stability and helping the small textile players handle volatility and also reduce losses on yarn procurement.
• Advantages under the TUFS scheme for the different textile units. Continuing the TUFS scheme with immediate effect.

The experts at the event wanted the industry to encourage the younger generation to come forward and make the textile industry a strong global player in the future.

A unique book titled Book of Brands was inaugurated at the event. The book was launched during the inaugural session of the Golden Jubilee program.

A technical session with speakers from different countries like Turkey, Italy, Austria, Japan, Singapore, Bangladesh, Germany and India was also part of this event.

Priyanka Dutta