The Department for Promotion of and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has granted Maharashtra an in-principalapprovalto establish a MegaLeatherFootwear and AccessoriesCluster Parkin Ratwad, located in the Raigad district in Konkan. The allocation of grants for such a cluster signifies Maharashtras growing strength in the sector and would further revolutionize the state’s leather sector, enabling the state to take a leading position infootwearand apparel exports, said an industries department release.
The Mega Leather Footwear andAccessoriesCluster Park measuring 151 acres is expected to serve as a hub for the leather industry collaboration, innovation, and Growth by integrating manufacturers, suppliers, designers, and artisans.
Maharashtra currently ranks 8th among largest producer and exporter of leather goods in the country. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) alone contributes to 21% of the nation’s leather exports, highlighting the state’s crucial role in the industry. The labor-intensive nature of the leather industry and its substantial multiplier effect makes it a Catalyst of EMPLOYMENT generation, with a focus on benefiting the weaker sections of Society.
The establishment of the Mega Leather Footwear and Accessories Cluster Park in Raigad will mark a milestone in Maharashtra’s economic growth trajectory.
The scheme ‘Indian Footwear and Leather Development Programme (IFLDP)’ has financial outlay of INR 1700 crore until March 31, 2026. As a sub-scheme of IFLDP, the ‘Mega Leather Footwear and Accessories Cluster Development’ (MLFACD) scheme aims to develop Leather Industries clusters to integrate forward and backward linkages and capitalize on economies of scale.
The MIDC is collaborating with Council of Leather Export (CLE) and Leather Industry development Corporation Maharashtra (LIDCOM) in the state to conduct the market research and stakeholder outreach for leather cluster development. Key highlights of the leather cluster include its proximity to Dighi Port, ample access to power, water and CETP Infrastructure and an existing industrial ecosystem. In addition, a Logistics park is also proposed near the site which will enable strong connectivity linkages and quicker fulfillment times.