Innovation breeds knowledge for integral growth: Minister

Tirupur, Tamil Nadu, Jan 20 (UNI) Union Minister of State for Textiles E V K S Elangovan said, ''innovation alone can help create new knowledge which can be transformed into wealth and social good''.

Inaugurating a workshop on 'Italian Fashion and Design' here last evening, he said it was a matter of happiness that Italy had chosen India as a 'Focus Country' for trade promotion in this year.

Mr Elangovan noted that the textile and garment industry had been contributing significantly to the country's economy. It contributes about 14 per cent to the total industrial production, four per cent to the GDP and 17 per cent to the country's export earnings besides providing direct emploment to 35 million people.

He said the National Institute of Fashion Technology is strengthening country's position on the global fashion map through the International alliances with premier fashion and design institutes across the world.

Later, talking to newspersons, Milan-based Carrera Holding INC president Gianluca Tacchella said, ''India is in a transition phase as the people are adapting to western dress style.'' UNI