New Delhi, 1 December (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu on Monday emphasized the need to expand India’s footwear industry to strengthen its foothold in global markets, saying that such growth will open new pathways for entrepreneurship and large-scale employment among students.

Addressing the convocation ceremony of the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) in New Delhi, President Murmu said India is rapidly moving toward self-reliance and is now capable of expanding its economic role on the global stage.

Highlighting India’s position in the global footwear sector, the President noted that the country ranks second in both production and consumption worldwide. During the financial year 2024–25, India’s footwear exports stood at over 2.5 billion dollars, while imports were approximately 680 million dollars—making exports nearly four times higher than imports. She noted that India is already one of the world’s major footwear exporters but added that expanding the industry further is necessary to boost exports and maximize its potential.

President Murmu also welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between FDDI and the University of Northampton in the United Kingdom, calling it an important step in deepening India–UK cooperation under the proposed Free Trade Agreement. She added that the MoU places special emphasis on sustainable materials and circular economy practices, reflecting both nations’ shared commitment to environmental conservation.

Encouraging students to think beyond design, President Murmu said their work must have a multidimensional impact on society and the nation. She urged them to transform footwear design into a means of improving health, generating livelihoods, reducing economic inequality, and strengthening India’s exports.

By upholding quality and innovation, she said, they can represent India in the global marketplace and become active contributors to the vision of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India).Significantly, 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, recognizing its potential to drive manufacturing and job creation.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar