The Footwear Design and Development Institute marked its Foundation Day with an Industry Conclave that underscored a renewed focus on innovation led education, skill development and deepened industry collaboration. Organised under the aegis of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, academicians, alumni, students and partners from the footwear, leather, fashion and allied sectors.
The occasion also served as the curtain raiser for the institute’s forthcoming milestone of 40 years of excellence, signalling the start of year long commemorative activities. Established in 1986, FDDI has evolved into an Institution of National Importance with a growing national and global footprint. During the event, the institute unveiled its Vision 2030, which places strong emphasis on innovation driven education, sustainability, entrepreneurship, industry integration and global competitiveness.
Addressing the gathering, the Managing Director of FDDI said the Foundation Day was both a celebration of the institute’s journey and a reaffirmation of the strong institutional support received from the government and industry partners. He noted that the articulation of Vision 2030 and the launch of the 40 years roadmap reflect FDDI’s commitment to remaining future ready, industry oriented and globally relevant, while staying rooted in sustainability and Indian heritage. Continued collaboration with industry and policy institutions, he said, would remain central to strengthening skills, innovation and nation building.
As part of the programme, a talk show session featuring FDDI leadership, distinguished alumni and representatives from leading industry organisations deliberated on emerging trends, future skill requirements, design and technology integration and the growing importance of industry academia collaboration. The discussions highlighted FDDI’s role as a key enabler of talent development and industrial growth in the footwear and fashion ecosystem.
The event also hosted the prize distribution ceremony of the CBSE national level design competition organised in collaboration with FDDI, recognising students from across the country for creativity and innovation. An Industry Advisory Roundtable followed, bringing together senior leaders from footwear, leather, fashion and allied industries for strategic dialogue on workforce development, innovation pathways and global competitiveness.
During the roundtable, FDDI launched its Industry Membership Programme to institutionalise structured and long term engagement with industry partners. Memoranda of Understanding were exchanged with industry organisations to strengthen collaboration in education, research, skilling and technology transfer, aligned with national industrial growth priorities.
Adding a cultural dimension, FDDI students presented a fashion show themed Traditional Khadi, showcasing India’s handspun and handwoven heritage through contemporary design. The presentation highlighted sustainability, indigenous textiles and the ethos of Vocal for Local. The presence of eminent dignitaries, industry leaders and former senior functionaries reflected strong institutional continuity and industry engagement.
The Foundation Day and Industry Conclave reaffirmed FDDI’s position as a premier national institute committed to excellence in education, innovation and meaningful industry collaboration, while outlining a clear and ambitious roadmap towards its 40th year and beyond.
