As there are no standard prescribed text books in the field of fashion, this venture of NIFT would be a milestone in the fashion world,' he added.

Himachal Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal said: 'It was a proud moment for us to get the fashion institute branch in the hill state. It will also provide global exposure to hand-knitted woollens by local craftsmen like shawls, stoles, mufflers, socks, gloves, pullovers and caps, Kangra paintings, Chamba rumal (handkerchief), and jewellery items.'

Former textile minister Shankarsingh Vaghela had laid the foundation stone of this institute in January this year.

The Kangra centre is the first to be set up in north India. It offers courses in fashion designing, fashion communication, fashion accessories, textile and apparel production.

'The first batch of 150 students has been enrolled,' institute director Dinesh Rangra said.