New Delhi, Dec 1 (NationPress) President Droupadi Murmu stated on Monday that the government is cultivating a supportive environment and providing incentives to stimulate investment in the footwear industry. She encouraged students to become entrepreneurs to enhance this sector.

While addressing the convocation ceremony of the Footwear Design and Development Institute (FDDI) in New Delhi, the President remarked that India is progressively becoming self-reliant and is poised to expand its economic influence on the global stage.

She expressed satisfaction that the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has recognized the footwear sector as a ‘Champion Sector’ as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.

The President highlighted that India ranks second worldwide in both footwear production and consumption. In the fiscal year 2024-25, India's footwear exports surpassed $2500 million, while imports were around $680 million.

Thus, India's footwear exports are nearly four times greater than its imports, she noted.

To further enhance exports, she emphasized the need for expansion in the footwear industry.

This expansion will create opportunities for students to pursue entrepreneurship and secure employment within enterprises, she stated.

The President was pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between FDDI and the University of Northampton.

Murmu mentioned that this signifies a new dimension in the strengthening of cooperation under the Free Trade Agreement between India and the United Kingdom.

She emphasized that this MoU focuses on sustainable materials and practices related to the circular economy, reflecting a commitment to environmental preservation shared by both nations.

The President acknowledged the multifaceted nature of the footwear design field. She urged graduating students to approach their careers with the vision of making significant contributions to society and the nation.

She encouraged them to enhance public health and functionality through their footwear design, create job opportunities, include those marginalized in the development process in economic growth, contribute to India's export strength, serve as brand ambassadors in the global market with quality products, and play a crucial role in achieving the national goal of a ‘Self-reliant India’.