President Murmu addresses FDDI convocation, highlights growth of India’s footwear sector

President Murmu addresses FDDI convocation, highlights growth of India’s footwear sector

President Droupadi Murmu on Monday attended the convocation ceremony of the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) in New Delhi, where she highlighted the expanding role of India’s footwear industry and the growing opportunities for young professionals entering the sector.

The Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) was set up in 1986 under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. Its main goals are to train people with the right skills for the footwear and related industries, to build facilities that help the Indian footwear sector meet global standards, and to support the growth of high-quality footwear and related products for export.

In her address, the President said India is becoming increasingly self-reliant and is well-positioned to strengthen its economic presence globally. She noted that the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has designated the footwear sector as a “Champion Sector” under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This, she said, reflects the government’s efforts to create an ecosystem that supports investment and growth in the industry.

The President pointed out that India is the world’s second-largest producer and consumer of footwear. In 2024–25, the country exported footwear worth over USD 2.5 billion, while imports stood at around USD 680 million—making exports nearly four times higher than imports. She said that although India is already among the leading exporters globally, further expansion of the sector would help boost exports and create more opportunities for entrepreneurship and employment.

President Murmu also welcomed the signing of an MoU between FDDI and the University of Northampton, calling it a step forward in India–UK cooperation under the Free Trade Agreement framework. She noted that the partnership places importance on sustainable materials and circular economy practices, aligning with both countries’ environmental commitments.

Addressing the graduating students, the President said footwear design is a field with multiple dimensions and advised them to aim for contributions that support both society and the economy. She encouraged them to work towards improving the health and functionality of the people through their footwear design; to create employment for people through their work; to enable those who have been relatively left behind in the development journey to participate in economic development through their work; to strengthen our economy by contributing to India’s exports; to become India’s brand ambassadors in the global market through their quality products; and to make a significant contribution to achieving the national goal of ‘Self-reliant India’.