Parliamentary Panel Urges Boost for Traditional Leather Products after Kolhapuri Chappal Row

New Delhi, Aug 13 (KNN) A team of experts from Italian luxury brand Prada visited Maharashtra’s Kolhapur on Wednesday to meet local artisans and review the manufacturing process of the region’s iconic flat sandals, just days after facing accusations of cultural appropriation.

The visit follows a parliamentary standing committee on commerce recommending that the government take proactive steps to promote traditional Indian leather products under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The aim, the panel said, is to secure global recognition, safeguard artisan rights, and prevent imitation by international brands, as seen in the Kolhapuri chappals controversy.

India’s leather industry employs over 4.42 million people, with women accounting for 40 per cent of the workforce. The committee stressed that preserving traditional crafts could significantly strengthen livelihoods while enhancing India’s cultural footprint in global markets.

In its report, the panel called for the early finalisation and implementation of the ‘Focus Product Scheme for Footwear & Leather Sectors,’ announced in the Union Budget.

It urged that the scheme support the entire value chain, including components, design, and machinery for both leather and non-leather footwear, with clear guidelines, regular reviews, and better coordination between stakeholders.

The committee also advised leveraging existing free trade agreements with Japan, Australia, the UAE, and ASEAN to boost leather exports, while prioritising new trade pacts with the European Union and other major markets.

Additionally, it highlighted the Export Promotion Mission (EPM) as a crucial tool for large-scale promotion in established markets and exploration of new destinations for Indian leather products.

The Kolhapuri chappal episode has reignited calls for stronger branding and intellectual property protections to ensure that India’s artisanal heritage receives due credit and benefits in the global fashion industry.

(KNN Bureau)