The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Shillong has developed an AI-powered fashion forecasting system under the VisioNxt Project, transforming India’s craft sector by reducing reliance on international trend agencies and empowering local artisans. During a press conference, NIFT Shillong Director Shankar Kumar Jha highlighted that the system has analyzed over 350,000 images to deliver precise fashion predictions tailored to Indian markets. The initiative has produced 60 micro-trend reports and 10 close-to-season forecasts, offering artisans insights to align their creations with market demands while preserving cultural authenticity.
A major milestone is the launch of Paridhi 24×25, India’s first bilingual fashion trend book, which has garnered over 2,000 downloads since its release in September. The book serves as a guide for designers seeking to integrate global trends with traditional craftsmanship.
The project has also trained over 800 students in trend analysis, enhancing their employment prospects in the fashion industry. Supported by the Ministry of Textiles, the initiative aims to position Indian fashion competitively on the global stage while safeguarding its cultural heritage.
