VisioNxt: India's AI-Powered Fashion Forecasting Revolution

Launch and Background of VisioNxt

• Union Minister of Textiles, Shri Giriraj Singh, launched the 'VisioNxt Fashion Forecasting Initiative' on September 5, 2024.
• The initiative includes a bilingual web portal and the India-specific Fashion Trend Book 'Paridhi 24x25'.
• Conceived in response to a gap identified by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 2017 Global Textile Summit.
• Developed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) with support from the Ministry of Textiles.
• Initially established in 2018 at NIFT Delhi (Creative Lab) and NIFT Chennai (Insights Lab), now centralized in Chennai.
• Aims to provide India-specific, real-time trend insights for the fashion industry.

Technological Innovation and Methodology

• VisioNxt is India's first initiative combining Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Emotional Intelligence (EI) for fashion forecasting.
• Utilizes a unique prediction model called "DeepVision" to decode patterns and interpret Indian fashion trends.
• Employs convolutional neural network architecture to identify product specifics (e.g., Kurta vs. Kurti, color, pattern).
• Created a comprehensive dataset of over 70,000 primary apparel images and 280,000+ secondary images.
• Developed an AI deep learning model that identifies over 60 Indian wear and 40 Western wear categories.
• Integrates India's strength in information technology with the textile industry.

Benefits and Impact on the Indian Fashion Industry

• Reduces dependence on global forecasting agencies.
• Provides unique insights into Indian fashion consumers.
• Empowers weavers, manufacturers, retailers, designers, and fashion brands with targeted insights.
• Offers trend-related consultancy services, academic courses, and workshops.
• Generates comprehensive reports with design and color directions for consumer-focused collections.
• Available in Hindi and English through the VisioNxt portal (www.visionxt.in).
• Positions India as a leader in the global fashion sector.
• Enhances visibility of Indian fashion vocabulary and identity on the world stage.

Achievements and Future Prospects

• Produced over 60 micro trend reports, 10 close-to-season trend reports, and 3 research papers.
• Published the first AI Taxonomy book for Indian wear categories.
• Created 1 e-magazine, a youth trend report, and a mindset book.
• Trained over 800 students in trend spotting.
• Expected to foster healthy global competition in the fast fashion era.
• Aims to elevate Indian culture and design to new heights globally.
• Facilitates a dynamic dialogue between Indian fashion and global trends.
• Supports the government's initiative to prioritize indigenous design and manufacturing.