DC Budgam Urges NIFT Graduates to Build ‘Vocal for Local’ Brands Rooted in Regional Identity
BUDGAM: The National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) Srinagar today held its Convocation Ceremony for the 2021–2025 batch at the institute’s campus auditorium, marking a proud milestone for graduating students from the departments of Fashion Design, Fashion Communication, and Master’s in Fashion Management.
The ceremony, attended by faculty members, parents, and dignitaries, was graced by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat, who served as the Guest of Honour and inaugurated the event with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp.
In his address, Dr. Bilal congratulated the graduating students and appreciated the faculty for fostering creativity and professionalism. He said that NIFT Srinagar has become a symbol of innovation and creativity in Jammu and Kashmir, successfully bridging heritage with modern design.
He emphasized the role of institutions like NIFT in empowering youth by channelizing their creativity into sustainable and meaningful careers. “Integrating local craftsmanship with modern design not only boosts employability but also preserves our invaluable cultural legacy,” he said.
Highlighting the global shift towards sustainability, authenticity, and innovation, the DC encouraged students to become ambassadors of ethical fashion and conscious design. He praised NIFT Srinagar’s efforts to revive and reimagine traditional crafts such as Kashmiri embroidery, Pashmina weaving, and papier-mâché—demonstrating how design can drive both economic growth and social empowerment.
Dr. Bilal also underscored the need to link education with entrepreneurship, urging students to explore local opportunities and contribute to the “Vocal for Local” vision by creating brands deeply rooted in regional identity. “Your education at NIFT gives you the power to turn ideas into reality,” he said, advising students to “think globally, act locally,” and uphold integrity, creativity, and social responsibility in their professional pursuits.
Commending NIFT Srinagar’s faculty and administration, the DC assured the district administration’s full support for initiatives promoting skill development and entrepreneurship in the creative sectors.
NIFT Srinagar Director, Dr. (Prof.) Monica Gupta, presented the Academic Report highlighting the institute’s achievements—strong placement records, student-led innovations, and its contribution to the local creative economy. She emphasized NIFT’s role in connecting traditional Kashmiri crafts with contemporary design education through its craft cluster programmes and collaborations with artisans.
Guest speaker and NIFT alumnus Manish Sondhi, now a successful entrepreneur, shared insights from his professional journey, urging graduates to remain adaptable, curious, and resilient in an evolving fashion landscape.
During the event, Dean (Academics) Prof. (Dr.) Nupur Anand administered the Graduation Pledge, reaffirming the students’ commitment to professionalism, innovation, and ethics.
The ceremony concluded with an Award Distribution segment recognizing meritorious students for academic excellence, followed by the formal conferral of degrees upon graduates from MFM, FC, and FD programmes.
The day ended on a joyous note as proud graduates, mentors, and families celebrated the beginning of a new chapter—carrying forward NIFT Srinagar’s legacy of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation.
