New Delhi, 10 Dec (KNN) To develop India’s first ever ‘Indian Footwear Sizing system’, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has roped in Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI), Chennai as a consultation partner to identify the footwear size ranges required to cover the need of the local population for footwear.

It will also define proportions and rules of constructing shoe lasts required for providing well-fitting and healthy footwear, said the press release. 

Currently, the Indian Standard IS 1638:1969 specification for sizing and fitting of footwear is based on the European and French Standards.

This standard requires a revision to accommodate for demographic, anthropometric features of the Indian feet, leading to a more comfortable footwear and health of individual.

An exclusive footwear sizing for India was required since the anatomy and functional requirements of footwear for children, juveniles and adults (both Men and Women) are demography dependent, stated the press release.

The project includes anthropometric survey, statistical analysis and development of an Indian foot sizing system and involves foot biomechanics and gait study, materials identification, lasts fabrication, development of design patterns and comfort parameters, wear trials, generation of specification.

The Department has approved an expenditure of INR 10.80 crore to complete this project.

This project will lead to carry out accurate measurement taking into consideration all the variations due to region, gender, age, health condition towards indigenisation of key products essential for realisation of an AatmaNirbhar Bharat.