India is set to establish Mega Footwear Parks in four key states by 2025 as part of an ambitious initiative to boost its position as a global leader in footwear manufacturing. The parks, aimed at fostering innovation, enhancing production capacity, and promoting sustainable practices, will be developed in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and West Bengal, all of which are known for their strong footwear manufacturing industries.
These parks will feature world-class infrastructure, including dedicated zones for footwear manufacturing, research and development, testing facilities, and training centers. The initiative is designed to create a hub for both leather and non-leather footwear production, catering to the growing global demand for high-quality, affordable footwear.
The government’s support for these parks includes tax incentives, subsidies, and improved logistics, making it an attractive investment opportunity for both domestic and international brands. The parks will also focus on sustainability, with a strong emphasis on using eco-friendly materials and greener production techniques, such as recycled plastics and bio-based leather alternatives.
In addition to improving the competitiveness of India’s footwear industry, these Mega Footwear Parks will create thousands of jobs, particularly in skilled labor and SMEs, and enhance the global export potential of Indian footwear. With the Indian footwear market already experiencing substantial growth, these parks will further cement India’s position as a key supplier of high-quality, sustainable footwear to international markets.
The initiative is aligned with the government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat campaigns, ensuring that India remains competitive in the global footwear industry, particularly in the face of challenges such as rising labor costs and increased competition from other manufacturing hubs like Vietnam and China. By 2025, the parks are expected to significantly contribute to India’s target of becoming a $26 billion footwear industry by 2030.
