The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which was signed in Delhi today, will be effective from 1 January 2024 till 31 December 2028. “The MoU initiates a pivotal five-year partnership between SREC, a prominent not-for-profit organization established in the year 2008, and CLE, operating under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India,” a media release stated.
“Through joint efforts, Solidaridad and CLE aim to introduce comprehensive training programmes, facilitate access to cleaner technology, and promote certifications that enrich the skill set and knowledge base of those involved in the leather industry,” said Solidaridad.
It added: “The MoU outlines the collaboration’s commitment to train 150,000 workers over five years, conduct capacity-building programmes, and build partnerships with leading leather institutions and leather businesses in the country. CLE will support trainings, workshops, engagement with stakeholders, and contribute towards the development and promotion of a Leather Portal for green and circular leather practices.”
Sanjay Leekha, Chairman, CLE said: “The Council for Leather Exports has set an ambitious target of US$ 47-billion business by 2030 for the Indian leather industry. This opens up avenues for leather professionals to innovate. I am happy to share that the MoU between CLE and Solidaridad is an alliance to represent a commitment to steering the Indian leather and footwear industry towards a more sustainable future. We are embarking on the journey of partnership, innovation and commitment to sustainability that will bring about transformative changes in the industry. Being responsible organizations, our endeavour would be to shape a sustainable future for this ever-evolving, labour-intensive manufacturing and exporting sector of India. Such an initiative also aligns very well with the ‘Make in India’ motto of the Government of India.”
Monika Khanna, Country Manager, SREC said, “Together, we’re not just aiming for efficiency and growth, but for a complete transformation – a transformation that prioritizes responsible production, empowers our workforce, and propels India’s leather sector to a leadership position in global markets. Over the next five years, we will train 150,000 workers, build capacities, and foster partnerships that drive innovation and sustainability. This is more than just a collaboration; it’s a catalyst for a greener, more equitable, and thriving future for Indian leather.”R. Selvam (IAS), Executive Director, CLE highlighted the significance of this collaboration and said, “This collaboration will provide impetus to our joint vision of unlocking pathways to prosperity in the leather sector through the 7S strategy – sustainability, scale, skill, speed, supply chain, sales, and style.” Tatheer Zaidi, Asia Head of Pollution Management in MSMEs at Solidaridad said, “The signing of the MoU signifies a dedicated commitment towards the holistic development and advancement of the leather sector, particularly focusing on empowering the tannery workforce through training and capacity-building initiatives.”
This strategic partnership comes on the back of SREC’s work in promoting sustainable practices in the Indian leather sector. The organization embarked on this journey in 2017 as an implementing partner for the ‘Pollution Prevention and Efficient Water Use in Kanpur-Unnao Leather Cluster’ project, funded by the Government of the Netherlands. SREC’s groundbreaking efforts led to the introduction of cutting-edge technologies like water flow meters, solenoid valves, and Smart Water Saving System, effectively reducing water usage in tanneries.
