India boasts a rich heritage in the textile industry, particularly in silk and ready-made garments, playing a pivotal role in the country's economy and cultural identity.
SILK INDUSTRY IN INDIA
Types and Production: India is renowned for its diverse silk varieties, including Mulberry, Tussar, Muga, and Eri. Mulberry silk, the most prevalent, accounts for a significant share of production. Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and Assam are the leading silk-producing states, each contributing unique characteristics to the silk they produce. Mysore, Kanchipuram, Varanasi, Bhagalpur, and Assam are particularly famous for their distinctive silk products.
Economic Impact: The silk industry is a major source of livelihood for millions, including farmers, weavers, and artisans. It supports traditional handloom sectors and modern textile mills, contributing significantly to rural employment and income
Exports: India is one of the largest producers and exporters of silk products, with key export destinations including the USA, Europe, and Japan. Indian silk is celebrated for its quality and craftsmanship, featuring in products ranging from luxurious fabrics to high-end fashion garments and accessories.
Ready-Made Garments Industry in India
Range of Products: The ready-made garments industry in India is diverse, encompassing traditional attire like sarees, salwar kameez, and lehengas, alongside contemporary apparel such as shirts, trousers, skirts, and suits. This industry meets both domestic demand and international markets.
Manufacturing Hubs: Major manufacturing centers include Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Tirupur, and Ludhiana, each specializing in various segments of garment production. Tirupur, for instance, is known as the knitwear capital of India, while Ludhiana is a key player in woolen garments.
Economic Contributions: This sector is a significant contributor to India’s GDP and foreign exchange earnings. It provides employment to millions, particularly women, and supports ancillary industries such as textile machinery, dyes, and packaging.
Exports: India is a prominent exporter of ready-made garments, with the USA, Europe, and the Middle East being major markets. Indian garments are appreciated for their quality, variety, and competitive pricing, making the country a preferred sourcing destination for global retailers. 1 Role of Silk and Ready-Made Garment Industries in India
Economic Contribution
1. GDP and Employment:
GDP Contribution: The textile sector, including silk and ready-made garments, is a significant contributor to India's GDP. The silk industry alone employs millions of people, including farmers, weavers, and artisans. Employment: The ready-made garment industry is one of the largest sources of employment in India, providing jobs to millions, especially women, in both urban and rural areas. This sector offers opportunities for unskilled, semi-skilled, and skilled labor, fostering economic development.
2. Foreign Exchange Earnings:
Exports: Both silk and ready-made garments are major export items for India. The country is among the largest exporters of silk products, with major markets in the USA, Europe, and Japan. The ready-made garment industry caters to global markets, with exports to the USA, Europe, and the Middle East. These exports bring in substantial foreign exchange, bolstering the national economy.
SOCIAL IMPACT
1. Preservation of Cultural Heritage:
Traditional Crafts: The silk industry helps preserve traditional weaving and crafting techniques that have been passed down through generations. Regions like Kanchipuram, Varanasi, and Assam are renowned for their unique silk weaving styles. Cultural Identity: Ready-made garments, including traditional attire like sarees and salwar kameez, play a crucial role in maintaining and promoting India's cultural identity. These garments are often worn during festivals, weddings, and other significant events, reflecting India's rich cultural heritage.
2 2. Women Empowerment:
Employment Opportunities: Both industries provide significant employment opportunities for
women, contributing to their financial independence and social empowerment. In many rural areas, women are actively involved in silk rearing, weaving, and garment manufacturing.
TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS
1. Innovation in Production:
Modern Techniques: The ready-made garment industry has adopted modern production techniques, including automation and advanced machinery, to improve efficiency and output. This has helped Indian manufacturers compete in the global market. Silk Farming Innovations: The silk industry has seen innovations in sericulture practices, improving silk yield and quality. Research and development efforts continue to enhance production techniques, ensuring sustainability and growth.
2. Sustainable Practices:
Eco-friendly Initiatives: Both industries are increasingly adopting sustainable practices. In silk production, efforts are made to use organic methods and reduce environmental impact. The garment industry is also embracing eco-friendly materials and processes, catering to the growing demand for sustainable fashion.
Global Influence
International Recognition:
Brand India: Indian silk and garments are recognized and appreciated worldwide for their quality, craftsmanship, and variety. This international recognition enhances India's reputation as a leading textile producer. Global Fashion: Indian garments and textiles influence global fashion trends. Designers often incorporate Indian textiles and techniques into their collections, showcasing India's rich textile heritage on international platforms.
3 2. Trade Relationships:
Bilateral Trade: The export of silk and ready-made garments strengthens India's trade relationships with other countries, promoting economic cooperation and mutual growth. These industries play a vital role in trade negotiations and agreements, further integrating India into the global economy.
Key Advantages of Silk and Ready-Made Garment Industries in India
1. Economic Growth: These industries are major contributors to India's GDP, driving economic growth and development.
2. Employment Generation: They provide substantial employment opportunities, particularly benefiting
4. Cultural Preservation: These industries help preserve and promote traditional Indian crafts and weaving techniques, sustaining cultural heritage.
5. Women Empowerment: High employment of women in these sectors fosters financial independence and social empowerment.
6. Global Market Presence: Indian silk and garments enjoy a strong reputation in international markets, enhancing the country's global trade relations.
7. Technological Advancements: Adoption of modern production techniques and innovation in
sericulture improves efficiency and product quality.
8. Sustainable Practices: Increasing focus on eco-friendly production methods meets the growing global demand for sustainable fashion.
9. Versatility and Diversity: Wide range of products from traditional attire to contemporary fashion caters to diverse market needs both domestically and internationally.
10. Trade Relationships: Export activities foster bilateral trade relations and economic cooperation with various countries, integrating India more deeply into the global economy
4 ABOUT THE COMPANY
COMPANY HISTORY
The owner of Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades in Namakkal is Rajagounder Rajenderan. The business is registered as a proprietorship and has been active since July 1, 2017. It operates from Sri Mariamman Kovil Street in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu
Founding and Early Years:
Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades was established with a vision to provide high-quality silk products and ready-made garments to the local community. The store was founded by a family deeply rooted in the textile and garment industry, bringing years of experience and expertise to the business.
Expansion and Growth:
Over the years, Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades expanded its product range to include a wide variety of silk sarees, traditional wear, and contemporary ready-made garments. The store's commitment to quality and customer satisfaction helped it build a loyal customer base.
Product Offerings:
Silk Sarees: The store became renowned for its exquisite collection of silk sarees, sourced from various parts of India, including Kanchipuram, Banaras, and Mysore. Ready-Made Garments: To cater to a broader audience, the store introduced a diverse range of ready-made garments for men, women, and children. Ethnic Wear: Recognizing the cultural significance of traditional attire, the store curated a selection of ethnic wear for festivals, weddings, and other special occasions.
Community Engagement:
Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades has been actively involved in the local community, participating in various cultural and social events. The store often sponsors local festivals and events, further strengthening its ties with the community.
Adaptation to Trends:
As fashion trends evolved, Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades adapted by regularly updating its inventory with the latest styles. The store also embraced modern retail practices, enhancing the shopping experience for its customers.
5 Customer-Centric Approach:
The success of Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades can be attributed to its customer-centric approach. The store focuses on providing personalized service, ensuring that each customer finds the perfect product to meet their needs.
Key Features:
1. Quality Assurance:
Emphasis on high-quality fabrics and craftsmanship.
Products are sourced from reputed weavers and manufacturers, ensuring authenticity and durability.
2. Customer Service:
Known for excellent customer service, offering personalized shopping assistance.
Friendly and knowledgeable staff help customers make informed choices.
3. Affordability:
Competitive pricing, offering value for money without compromising on quality.
Regular discounts and offers to attract a broad customer base.
4. Variety and Selection:
A diverse range of products catering to different tastes and preferences.
Frequent updates to the inventory to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
5. Location and Accessibility:
Conveniently located in Namakkal, making it accessible to local residents and visitors.
Ample parking space and easy-to-navigate store layout enhance the shopping experience.
TEAM SALES EXECUTIVE CUSTOMER ACCOUNT PROMOTION CASHIER SERVICE TEAM TEAM TEAM
CLEANING & MAINTANENCE
STAFF, SECURITY PERSONNEL
7 Roles of various Departments
In a retail business like Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades, each department plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction. Here’s a breakdown of typical departments and their roles:
1. Sales Department: Handles customer interactions, sells products, and provides information about the merchandise. They are often involved in promotions and customer service.
2. Marketing Department: Manages advertising, promotions, and market research to attract
customers and increase brand awareness. They develop strategies to boost sales and manage the store’s online and offline presence.
8 3. Inventory Management: Oversees the stock levels, orders new inventory, and ensures that products are available in sufficient quantities. This department keeps track of stock movement and manages supply chain logistics.
9 4. Finance Department: Manages financial transactions, budgeting, accounting, and reporting. They handle payments, payroll, and financial planning to ensure the business remains financially healthy.
5. Human Resources (HR): Responsible for recruitment, training, and managing employee relations. They handle employee benefits, performance evaluations, and ensure compliance with labor laws.
10 6. Customer Service: Addresses customer inquiries, complaints, and feedback. They aim to resolve issues and enhance the overall customer experience.
7. Merchandising: Works on selecting and procuring products that meet market demand. They design store layouts, plan promotions, and ensure the product assortment aligns with customer preferences.
8. Operations: Manages the day-to-day running of the store, including managing staff schedules, overseeing store maintenance, and ensuring that store policies and procedures are followed.
Each department must collaborate effectively to ensure the business runs smoothly and meets its goals.
11 Summary of Internship Activities (Days 1 to 15)
Day 1-3: Orientation and Introduction**
Company Overview: Introduction to Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades, including its history, mission, and organizational structure. Departmental Introductions: Meetings with department heads and team members to understand their roles and functions. Training Sessions: Basic training on company policies, procedures, and systems used in the store.
Day 4-6: Departmental Exposure
Shadowing: Observing daily operations in key departments like Sales, Inventory Management, and Customer Service. Understanding Operations: Learning about stock management, customer interaction, and store layout.
Day 7-10: Initial Responsibilities
Assigned Tasks: Assisting with tasks such as updating inventory records, preparing sales reports, or managing store displays. Customer Interaction: Gaining experience in assisting customers, handling queries, and supporting the sales team.
Day 11-15: Hands-On Experience
Project Involvement: Working on specific projects such as analyzing sales data, organizing promotional events, or improving store processes. Operational Support: Helping with routine tasks like restocking shelves, processing transactions, and maintaining store cleanliness. Feedback Session: Receiving feedback from supervisors on performance and discussing any challenges faced.
12 CONCLUSION
During my 15-day internship at Sai Shankar Silks and Readymades, I gained valuable insights into the retail industry and the intricacies of store operations. The experience provided me with a comprehensive understanding of various departmental functions, including sales, inventory management, and customer service.
Throughout the internship, I actively participated in daily operations, from assisting with inventory management and customer interactions to supporting sales initiatives. The hands-on experience helped me develop practical skills in managing store processes, handling customer inquiries, and contributing to team efforts.
The guidance and feedback from my mentors were instrumental in enhancing my understanding of retail dynamics and improving my professional skills. Overall, this internship has been a significant learning opportunity, reinforcing my interest in the retail sector and providing me with a solid foundation for future career aspirations.
