The Government of India has announced a major support measure for the leather and footwear sector in the form of special package for leather and footwear sector, which was approved by the Union Cabinet on 16th December, 2017.

This package, with an approved expenditure of Rs.2600 crore, encompasses support measures covering all core areas namely modernization and technological up-gradation of production units (IDLS sub-scheme), Skill Development and Employment generation (HRD sub-scheme), Environment Management (Leather Technology, Innovation and Environmental Issues sub-scheme), Brand Promotion, creation of Integrated Production Clusters (Mega Leather, Footwear and Accessories Cluster (MLFAC) sub-scheme, Additional Incentive for employment generation and also flexibility in labour laws.

The substantial increase in Government funding outlay under the Special Package will be a major catalyst to the industry in expanding its market share in the fiercely competitive global market and also in promoting domestic production under Honíble Prime Minister’s flagship Make in India programme.

I am sure that the special package will play a significant role in achieving significant growth levels, both on export front and in domestic market in the next 3 years and also in generating employment opportunities to thousands of unemployed youth. My greetings and best wishes for a prosperous 2018!