Surat, June 17, 2025 — In a visionary move aimed at enhancing Surat's global industrial competitiveness, the Southern Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SGCCI) has advanced plans to establish a Centre of Excellence in the city. As part of this initiative, a chamber delegation visited two prominent institutions on June 16, 2025 — the Ahmedabad Textile Industries Research Association (ATIRA) and the AI Centre of Excellence located in GIFT City, Gandhinagar.
Led by SGCCI President Nikhil Madrasi, the delegation included Vice President Ashok Jirawala, Honorary Secretary Bijal Jariwala, former Secretary Nirav Mandalewala, Secretary Paulik Desai, Thomas J.E., and several other key members. The team reviewed the operational models and technical facilities of both institutions to gain insights for replicating similar frameworks in Surat.
ATIRA, headquartered in Ahmedabad, is India's first technical textile research center and plays a pivotal role in developing advanced fabrics used across sectors such as defense, space, and infrastructure. The institution specializes in geotextiles, composite materials, and high-performance fabrics, while offering research, training, testing services, and standards development. ATIRA’s contributions range from supporting ISRO to supplying materials for Vande Bharat trains.
The SGCCI delegation was highly impressed by the innovations and services provided by ATIRA. They particularly focused on modules and technologies that could be adapted to meet the specific needs of Surat’s textile sector.
At the AI Centre of Excellence in GIFT City, the delegation observed how a tri-sectoral approach — involving education, industry, and governance — is fostering innovation, startup incubation, skill development, and smart governance practices. The center offers robust support to startups and SMEs through collaboration and technical mentorship.
SGCCI President Nikhil Madrasi emphasized that setting up a Centre of Excellence in Surat would be a transformative move for local entrepreneurs, technocrats, and youth. The proposed center would serve as a dynamic platform for research, training, innovation, and technical advancement across industries.
He added that this initiative aligns with India's national vision of becoming a developed country by 2047, and would ensure that Surat’s industries play a direct and vital role in achieving this goal. The Centre of Excellence is expected to benefit not only the textile industry but also other manufacturing sectors and startups by strengthening their global competitiveness.
