With a heavy emphasis on boosting exports and creating jobs in the state’s booming leather industry, the Uttar Pradesh government is about to introduce a new leather and footwear strategy. The finalized draft policy has been sent to the government for approval.

With alluring incentives for investors, the new strategy places a strong focus on the growth of private leather and footwear industrial parks. Private industrial parks larger than 100 acres would be eligible for a capital subsidy of up to Rs 80 crore.

A maximum capital subsidy of Rs 45 crore has been suggested for parks built on 25–100 acre plots of land. Additionally, land acquisitions for these parks will be completely free from stamp duty.

The goal of the strategy is pretty clear: for every Rs 1 crore spent, 20 jobs must be created. It is anticipated that each unit created under the scheme would generate 1,000–3,000 new jobs.

The policy requires that at least 25% of the park’s total area be created as open and green space in order to promote sustainable development. For the creation of a cluster as a whole, developers must spend at least Rs 200 crore, and for the construction of individual plants, industrial facilities, or related infrastructure, they must invest at least Rs 150 crore. Within five years, construction and operational readiness must be attained.

With Agra, Kanpur, and Unnao emerging as the main centers, Uttar Pradesh commands a strong 46% share of the nation’s total leather exports. With more than 200 tanneries now operating in these regions, the state’s hegemony in the leather and footwear sector is further cemented.

By promoting private investment, improving global competitiveness, and generating thousands of new employment opportunities around the state, the new strategy is anticipated to fortify this leadership.