The Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI), an Institution of National Importance (INI) under the aegis of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, organised a Foundation Day and Industry Conclave to mark its Foundation Day.

The event brought together policymakers, senior leadership, industry experts, alumni, academicians, students and key partners from the footwear, leather, fashion and allied sectors. The occasion also served as the Curtain Raiser for FDDI’s forthcoming milestone, “40 Years of Excellence”, marking the beginning of year-long commemorative activities. The programme highlighted FDDI’s journey since its establishment in 1986, its evolution under the guidance of DPIIT, and its expanding national and global footprint. On the occasion, FDDI also unveiled its Vision 2030, focused on innovation-led education, sustainability, entrepreneurship, industry integration and global competitiveness.

Addressing the gathering, Managing Director, FDDI, Shri Vivek Sharma, IRS, stated that the Foundation Day marked both a celebration of FDDI’s journey and the strong institutional support received from DPIIT and industry partners. He said that with the Curtain Raiser for 40 Years of Excellence and the articulation of Vision 2030, FDDI reaffirmed its commitment to being future-ready, industry-driven and globally relevant, while remaining rooted in sustainability and Indian heritage. He added that continued collaboration with DPIIT and industry would remain central to strengthening skills, innovation and nation-building.

As part of the celebrations, a Talk Show Session was organised featuring FDDI leadership, distinguished alumni and eminent representatives from leading industry organisations. The session deliberated on emerging industry trends, future skill requirements, design and technology integration, and the importance of industry–academia collaboration, highlighting FDDI’s role 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 the country for their creativity and innovation.

An Industry Advisory Roundtable was convened with senior leaders from the footwear, leather, fashion and allied industries, providing a platform for strategic dialogue on workforce development, innovation and global competitiveness. During the roundtable, FDDI launched its Industry Membership Programme to institutionalise structured and long-term engagement with industry partners. The session also witnessed the exchange of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with industry organisations, strengthening collaboration in education, research, skilling and technology transfer, in alignment with DPIIT’s vision for industrial growth.

Adding a cultural dimension to the celebrations, 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 event was attended by eminent dignitaries, industry leaders and former senior functionaries of FDDI, reflecting strong institutional continuity and industry engagement.

The Foundation Day and Industry Conclave 2026 reaffirmed FDDI’s position as a premier national institute supported by DPIIT and industry, committed to excellence in education, innovation and meaningful industry collaboration, while outlining a clear roadmap towards its 40th year and beyond.