With a population of 1.38 billion people, India stands as a nation characterized by remarkable diversity, encompassing a wide spectrum of body sizes and shapes. However, this diversity poses challenges for apparel manufacturers /retailers who are grappling with rising product returns, sales losses due to the unavailability of appropriate sizes, and discontented customers. Recognizing the pressing need for a standardized approach to human body sizing, the introduction of INDIAsize becomes imperative. This initiative aims to offer a comprehensive representation of the diverse body shapes and sizes present across the entire population, addressing the challenges faced by manufacturers/ retailers and enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.

Over 25,000 individuals, both male and female, aged 15 and above, underwent measurements in six distinct cities situated across various regions of India. These cities include New Delhi representing the North, Mumbai for the West, Chennai covering South India, Hyderabad situated in Central India, Kolkata representing East India, and Shillong in the North-East. This extensive data collection spans diverse geographical locations, providing a comprehensive insight into the body sizes and shapes of the population within the specified age group across the country.

The target participants for the INDIAsize survey were Indian male and female individuals aged 15 and above. The data collection aimed to capture precise segments of the sample pool by employing a stratified sampling process based on various demographic factors such as region, age, sex, income, and others. This approach was designed to align with the census of India and ensure a comprehensive representation of the diverse population, making the survey truly reflective of the pan-India landscape.

The measurement process for the INDIAsize survey involved the use of a cutting-edge, a non-contact, human-safe 3D whole-body scanning system. This advanced system captured the full body of each participant in three dimensions within a few seconds and extracted accurate body measurements from the acquired data. To ensure precision and consistency, subjects were scanned in two different postures using ISO procedures while wearing a specially built scan suit. This suit was designed to improve measuring accuracy while also maintaining homogeneity among participants. The INDIAsize survey used non-invasive 3D scanning technology and purpose-built scan suits to gather accurate data on body sizes and shapes, providing valuable insights into the anthropometric diversity of the Indian population.

The INDIAsize survey incorporated several key features that contributed to its comprehensive and standardized approach:

1. Utilization of Human-Safe 3D Whole Body Scanners: The survey employed the latest in scanning technology—human-safe 3D whole body scanners—for non-contact and accurate measurements.
2. Socio-Demographic Questionnaire for Relevant Data: Participants provided information through a socio-demographic questionnaire, facilitating the capture of pertinent data beyond anthropometric measurements.
3. Extensive Data Collection from Around 100 Anthropometric Measurements: Each participant contributed to a robust dataset by providing approximately 100 anthropometric measurements, offering a detailed understanding of body sizes and shapes.
4. Dual-Posture Scanning in Specifically Designed Scan Suits: The scanning process involved participants adopting two postures—standing and seated—while wearing specially designed scan suits. This approach ensured uniformity and standardization across measurements.
5. Compliance with International Standards (ISO 8559, ISO 7250, ISO 20685): Anthropometric measurements were collected in accordance with ISO 8559 (Anthropometric definitions for body measurement) and some measurements from ISO 7250 (Basic human body measurements for technological design). The survey also followed ISO 20685 for 3D scanning methodologies to maintain internationally compatible anthropometric databases.

The INDIAsize project envisions transforming the existing challenges associated with poor sizing, specifically targeting issues such as product returns and sales losses. The creation of an improved size chart aims to enhance the fit of garments for consumers. This improvement is expected to not only boost business for the Indian apparel industry but also benefit international brands entering the domestic market, enabling them to better cater to the preferences of Indian consumers. Ultimately, the anticipated outcome is a significant positive impact on both the apparel sector and the overall satisfaction of Indian consumers.

Safety is a paramount consideration for both the technology and data in the INDIAsize survey:

1. Technology Safety: The 3D body scanner used in the survey is a Class 1 Laser, which is considered safe for all normal usage settings, safeguarding the participants' well-being during the scanning procedure.
2. Data Confidentiality Measures: All personal information collected throughout the survey is kept strictly confidential. It will be stored securely and not shared with any other parties. To protect privacy, anthropometric data is logged against a unique barcode, which removes any personally identifiable information.
3. Secure Data Storage: All scanned data is saved solely in NIFT cloud services devoted to this project, ensuring a secure environment for sensitive information.
4. Privacy Assurance in Reports: Any written or oral reporting based on the survey will not include any mention of the participants' identities or identify. This strong privacy policy is in place to ensure participants' confidentiality and anonymity throughout the process.
5. Ethical Clearance: Strict adherence to Government of India guidelines through frequent assessment and clearance by the national research ethics council established specifically for the INDIAsize project.

As a token of gratitude for completing the scanning process and contributing to the survey, participants received a gift voucher along with the scanning attire. Additionally, they were awarded a participation certificate as a recognition of their role in shaping the historical data gathered by the survey.

The key findings of the INDIAsize survey unveil a groundbreaking initiative that significantly impacts the understanding and application of anthropometric data and sizing standards:

1. The INDIAsize Initiative: One of the world's largest anthropometric surveys, covers a wide range of demographics.
2. Extensive Data Collection: The study scanned 26,324 individuals, yielding unique insights into body proportions for 13,281 males and 13,043 females.
3. Extensive Study: The study was conducted over 18 months and collected data from 6 regions, 6 cities, and 22 locations, exhibiting extensive evaluation.
4. Uninterrupted Amidst Challenges: Despite the challenges posed by the Covid pandemic, the initiative showcased resilience, persisting through difficult times and contributing to the field of anthropometric research.
5. Pan India Representation: The survey achieved comprehensive coverage, capturing the nuances of body proportions on a nationwide scale, offering a holistic representation of India's diverse population.
6. Multidimensional Demographics: In addition to age, gender, and area, the survey collected information on community, income, education, work profile, employment sector, and other factors.
7. Statistical Analysis: The rigorous data analysis led to the construction of 13 and 14 size charts for the Indian Female and Male population respectively, providing appropriate representation of varied body shapes.
8. Body Landmarks: The study included data from over 100 body landmarks to represent varied body types and anatomy.
9. Business Impact: The findings are projected to aid the fashion business by offering insights for fitted garments, expanding to ergonomic product areas, and redefining sizing norms.
10. IN Tag Initiative: The 'IN' tag reflects the specific anthropometric characteristics of the Indian population and marks a significant change in garment size identification.
11. Empowering Mindsets: The effort transcends colonial sizing conventions and embraces a distinct Indian size chart. This action has the potential to empower individuals and shift mindsets in the fashion business, encouraging inclusivity and diversity.