INDIAsize: A move in the right direction

Ministry of Textile and National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) launched an India size survey, in order to do away with the confusion of size.  It has been titled as INDIAsize. The survey was officially launched on August 26, 2021.

Key Points

• This initiative was launched with the aim of introducing a new standardised size chart in ready-to-wear clothing sector in India.
• This project was announced in February 2019. However, it got delayed because of covid-19 pandemic.
• New sizing chart will comprise of a size identification number. It will be created by mapping, categorising and defining the body size and type.
• At present, only 18 countries have their own sizing charts.

The textile sector in India is the second largest employer. It generates about Rs 140 billion, out of which Rs 100 billion is from Indian consumers alone while Rs 40 billion is from export.

With INDIAsize, surveys are being conducted across six states namely Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Shillong and Kolkata. Survey in Delhi is currently underway with the aim of reaching to about 5,700 participants. In the survey, 100 anthropometric data points are being used from each of the participants. Participants have been selected from different age groups, income brackets and varied ethnicities.

Team is using a 3D whole body scanner technology to gather anthropometric data from participants. All the international protocols of national sizing survey are being used.

INDIAsize survey is part of “fibre-to-fashion” initiative by the Ministry of Textiles.