Leather
India is the world's 2nd largest footwear producer, 3rd largest leather producer and 4th largest leather goods exporter, with the sector employing over 42 lakh workers across tanning, footwear, leather goods and garments. India has a strong cluster-based leather industry in Agra, Chennai, Kanpur, Kolkata, Mumbai and Jalandhar.
Sector Overview
The leather industry spans wet processing (tanning using traditional and chrome-free processes), footwear manufacturing, handbag and accessories production, saddlery and leather garments. Sustainability is a growing concern—eco-friendly tanning processes, water recycling and alternative (vegan) leather materials are reshaping the sector. Design and fashion-oriented roles are growing alongside traditional craftperson and operator profiles.
Key Skills & Competencies
Career Progression
Craftspersons progress from machine operators to supervisors, production managers and plant heads. Design graduates can build careers with international luxury leather brands or launch their own leather fashion labels.
Training & Certifications
LSSC NSDC programmes, Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) training, Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI), ITI Leather courses, B.Sc./M.Sc. Leather Technology.
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Employment Prospects
India aims to double leather exports to $10 billion by 2028. The government's Leather Technology, Innovation and Environmental Issues scheme supports upstream modernisation. Demand for eco-tanned and certified-origin leather presents premium market opportunities.
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