Santosh Katariya has been re-elected president of the Clothing Manufacturers Association of India (CMAI) for a second consecutive term, with the body’s core leadership team also retaining their posts.
The association said the continuity reflects a clear mandate from members to build on the initiatives and industry engagement of the past two years.
Thanking CMAI’s office bearers and managing committee for their confidence, Katariya said the renewed mandate comes with a stronger focus on improving the competitiveness of India’s apparel ecosystem.
He said “The past two years have been an enriching journey of new initiatives, learning, teamwork and progress. As we begin a new term, I, along with my entire team, look forward to working with renewed energy and commitment to take CMAI to new heights and deliver greater value to our members and the Indian apparel industry.”
Core team retained
The re-elected leadership covers key areas including trade initiatives, government engagement, member services and administration.
Rohit Munjal continues as Vice President and Chairman of the Fair Sub Committee, while Ankur Gadia remains Vice President and Chairman of the Government Subsidy and CSR Sub Committee.
On the administrative side, Naveen Sainani stays on as Honorary General Secretary, supported by Mukesh Jain as Honorary Joint General Secretary. Paresh Vora (Honorary Treasurer) and Dinesh Nandu (Honorary Joint Treasurer) will continue to oversee the association’s finances.
The association said the unchanged leadership should allow it to carry forward ongoing activities without disruption, while concentrating on the changing needs of the apparel industry, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Established over 63 years ago, CMAI describes itself as the most representative body of the Indian apparel industry, with more than 7,000 members, including manufacturers, exporters, brands and ancillary businesses, and a reach extending to over 50,000 retailers.
The association advocates on policy matters and guides members on ESG-related initiatives. In 2019, it launched the SU.RE initiative to encourage sustainability among members.
CMAI led the creation of the Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) in 1978 and is authorised by the Government of India to issue Certificates of Origin (Non-Preferential) to exporters. It is also the only Indian association representing the country’s entire apparel industry and trade at international forums such as the International Apparel Federation (IAF), based in the Netherlands.
