Rajasthan Garment Exporters Launch Training Centre to Tackle Skill Shortage
In a significant move to bolster Rajasthan's garment industry, the Garment Exporters Association of Rajasthan (GEAR) has inaugurated a dedicated training and research centre. This initiative aims to address the critical shortage of skilled and semi-skilled manpower that has long hampered the sector's growth and export potential.
Addressing Industry Challenges
The newly formed GEAR Training & Research Foundation will implement skill development programmes specifically tailored to meet industry demands. Additionally, it will conduct research activities to better understand global market requirements, thereby enhancing exports from the state.
Industry stakeholders have consistently faced difficulties in sourcing adequately trained workers. Key bottlenecks include shortages of skilled operators, pattern makers, computer-aided design operators, and quality control personnel, which have impeded efforts to scale production and increase exports.
Structured Training Programmes
Rakshit Poddar, president of GEAR, emphasised that the new institute directly targets the skilled manpower shortage by offering structured, high-quality training programmes. "Our goal is to bridge the gap between industry needs and available talent," he stated.
The training modules will cover a comprehensive range of roles within the garment sector, including:
- Tailors and master trainers
- Pattern makers and designers
- Quality controllers and checkers
- Merchandisers
Flexible Course Offerings
Course durations will be highly flexible, ranging from short-term programmes of 15 days to more intensive courses lasting up to three months. This flexibility allows for curriculum designs that adapt to specific faculty inputs and industry requirements.
Poddar explained that training costs will be shared between candidates and the industry. "We intentionally avoided making it completely free to ensure greater commitment and seriousness from participants, which ultimately improves outcomes and employability," he added.
Ambitious Training Targets
The institute plans to train between 1,000 and 1,500 students annually across various disciplines. This ambitious target aims to create a steady pipeline of industry-ready professionals for Rajasthan's garment sector, addressing both immediate and long-term workforce needs.
Funding and Future Plans
GEAR has mobilised approximately Rs 3.5 crore in funding for the project from its members. The association is also exploring opportunities to approach relevant agencies and departments at both the central and state government levels for additional support and collaboration.
This strategic initiative represents a proactive step toward strengthening Rajasthan's position in the global garment market by developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting evolving industry standards and export demands.
