FDDI Marks Foundation Day with Industry Conclave, Unveils Vision 2030 Ahead of 40 Years of Excellence

The programme traced FDDI’s journey since its establishment in 1986, highlighting its evolution under DPIIT’s guidance and its growing national and global footprint.

 

The Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI)—an Institution of National Importance (INI) under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry—today organised a Foundation Day and Industry Conclave, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, alumni, academicians and students from across the footwear, leather, fashion and allied sectors.

The event also served as the Curtain Raiser for FDDI’s upcoming milestone, “40 Years of Excellence”, launching a year-long programme of commemorative activities ahead of the Institute’s 40th anniversary in 2026.

Celebrating Legacy, Setting the Future Course

The programme traced FDDI’s journey since its establishment in 1986, highlighting its evolution under DPIIT’s guidance and its growing national and global footprint. On the occasion, FDDI unveiled its Vision 2030, a forward-looking roadmap centred on:

• Innovation-led education

• Sustainability and responsible design

• Entrepreneurship and start-up support

• Deep industry integration

• Global competitiveness

Addressing the gathering, Shri Vivek Sharma, IRS, Managing Director, FDDI, said the Foundation Day was both a celebration of FDDI’s legacy and a reaffirmation of its future direction.

“With the Curtain Raiser for 40 Years of Excellence and the articulation of Vision 2030, FDDI reaffirms its commitment to being future-ready, industry-driven and globally relevant, while remaining rooted in sustainability and India’s rich heritage,” he said. “Continued collaboration with DPIIT and industry partners will remain central to strengthening skills, innovation and nation-building.”

Industry–Academia Collaboration at the Core

A Talk Show Session featuring FDDI leadership, distinguished alumni and representatives from leading industry organisations explored emerging industry trends, evolving skill requirements, and the integration of design and technology. Speakers underscored the critical role of industry–academia collaboration in building a globally competitive workforce and positioned FDDI as a key enabler of talent development and industrial growth.

The event also hosted the Prize Distribution Ceremony of the CBSE National-Level Design Competition, organised in collaboration with FDDI, recognising students from across India for creativity and innovation.

Strengthening Industry Partnerships

An Industry Advisory Roundtable brought together senior leaders from the footwear, leather, fashion and allied industries for strategic dialogue on workforce development, innovation and global competitiveness.

During the roundtable:

• FDDI launched its Industry Membership Programme, institutionalising structured and long-term engagement with industry partners

• Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were exchanged with industry organisations to strengthen collaboration in education, research, skilling and technology transfer

These initiatives align with DPIIT’s vision for industrial growth and aim to ensure that FDDI’s academic and research activities remain closely linked to industry needs.

Showcasing Sustainability and Heritage

Adding a cultural dimension, FDDI students presented a fashion show themed “Traditional Khadi”, reinterpreting India’s handspun and handwoven heritage through contemporary design. The showcase highlighted sustainability, indigenous textiles and the spirit of Vocal for Local, reinforcing FDDI’s commitment to responsible fashion and cultural preservation.

Looking Ahead

The Foundation Day and Industry Conclave 2026 reaffirmed FDDI’s position as a premier national institute supported by DPIIT and industry. With Vision 2030 as its guide, FDDI outlined a clear roadmap toward its 40th year and beyond—focused on excellence in education, innovation, sustainability and meaningful industry collaboration.