Goyal also holds the portfolios of consumer affairs, food and public distribution and textiles.

India has immense potential in the footwear sector and can raise production and export 10 times in near future, according to minister of commerce and industry Piyush Goyal. Virtually addressing ‘Meet at Agra-Leather, Footwear Components & Technology Fair’ recently, he urged sector representatives to explore non-leather footwear sector as well.

About 7,000 small industrial units are connected with the footwear sector and India is the second largest producer of footwear and leather garments and can become the world leader, he was quoted as saying in an official release. 

Goyal urged industry representatives to ensure safety and health measures of workers and focus on quality in exports.

The government has notified the Indian Footwear & Leather Development Programme (IFLDP) with an outlay of ₹1,700 crore for implementation between 2021 and 2026. 

Fibre2Fashion News Desk (DS)