On 14 January 2024, Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI) celebrated 'Founder's Day' at its Noida campus with great gusto and vigor.
On this occasion, Mr. Pankaj Kumar Sinha, Managing Director (MD)- FDDI, Dr. Narasimhugari Tej Lohit Reddy, IAS, Executive Director (ED), FDDI Hyderabad campus, Mr. Anil Kumar, AFHQCS, Executive Director (ED), FDDI, Jodhpur campus staff and students of FDDI were present.
The Day marks a significant milestone in FDDI's journey as it was on this date in the year 1986 when Mr. Premnath Seth was appointed as the first Chairman of FDDI.
Delivering the ‘Welcome Address’, Mr. Pankaj Kumar Sinha, Managing Director-FDDI said, “On this auspicious occasion of Founder's Day of FDDI, we come together to celebrate the remarkable journey that brought us to this moment. It's a time to reflect on the spirit and vision of those extraordinary individuals who laid the foundation stone of our organization.”
“As we trace the roots of our success, we find ourselves indebted to the pioneers who, with relentless determination, transformed dreams into reality. Their foresight, courage, and unwavering commitment have shaped the very essence of FDDI”, added Mr. Sinha.
Ex-Managing Directors, Ex- Secretary, alumni, and industry stalwarts, were felicitated by Mr. Pankaj Kumar Sinha, MD-FDDI for their foresight, unwavering commitment and invaluable contributions to the institute.
Ex-Managing Directors of FDDI namely, Mr. Arvind Ray, IAS (Retd.), Mr. Alok Sinha, IAS (Retd.), Mr. Rajeev Lakhara, IRS (Retd.), Ex- Secretary of FDDI. Mr. Ajay Kumar, IRS (Retd.), Deputy Secretary-DPIIT, Mr. Rajeev Kumar Jain graced the occasion.
Eminent industry experts including Mr. Motilal Sethi, Member- FDDI Governing Council (GC) & President, Indian Leather Goods Association (ILGA), Mr. Sanjay Gupta, Member- FDDI GC & President, Indian Footwear Components Manufacturers Association (IFCOMA), Mr. Dharmender Singh - Business Head at Gopsun Leather and Footwear Pvt., Ltd., Mr. Suman Nayak - Chief General Manager, Nippon Audiotronix Pvt., Ltd., Mohammad Yunus – Proprietor, East West Tanners, Mr. Yogesh Mankar, Director 24 Colourkicks Pvt. Ltd., Mr. Aarush Mehta, Business Head - Chemico Processing, Mr. Rishi Chaudhary, Founder –Ritambh, Mr. Sandeep Priyadarshi, Sr. Associate –EY, Eshu Gupta, BDM - Elmo Export, Rajveer Singh Sr. Merchandiser Flawless Buying, Mr. Biplab Bhattacharjee, Sr. Designer - SR Leathers, Mr. Simran Raj, E Com Manager-NappaDori and other alumni and industry stalwarts were also present.
On this occasion, an article containing coverage of FDDI under the topic, ‘Role of FDDI in shaping Footwear Industry’ in the magazine ‘Textile Business Digest’ of January 2024 issue was launched.
Besides this, the inaugural conceptual advertisement of FDDI, featuring the compelling tagline "Empowering Dreams, Empowering Passion" was unveiled by Mr. Pankaj Kumar Sinha, MD-FDDI and Ex-Managing Directors of FDDI namely, Mr. Arvind Ray, IAS (Retd.), Mr. Alok Sinha, IAS (Retd.). This launch signifies a significant step forward in showcasing the essence and vision of FDDI, encapsulating the institution's commitment to nurturing dreams and fostering unwavering passion within its community.
The theme for the celebration was ‘Seed of Life: Creation-Inspiration-Growth’ that commenced with ‘Meraki’; a captivating fashion show, followed by melodious music that added a dynamic touch to the celebration, generating excitement among the participants.
Just as the ‘Seed of Life’ signifies both the culmination and the ever-expanding possibilities of creation, the inception of FDDI was a culmination of diverse contributions from individuals across diverse backgrounds.
Through ‘Meraki’, the students of FDDI, from the Foundation batch 2023-2027 semester 1 Design Project 1, presented their discoveries and explorations of significant historical eras through handmade crafts and lifestyle products such as garments, footwear, accessories, decor, and a lot more which successfully brought together diverse departments of FDDI.
During the event, cultural performances and fashion shows also featured, highlighting the fusion of traditional and contemporary designs, and showcasing India's rich culture and heritage.
The fashion show added a dynamic touch to Founder’s Day celebration.
Additionally, the celebration included ‘Talk Show’ on the topic ‘FDDI's Education: A Roadmap to Business Success’ which was moderated by Mr. Amit Verma, Sr. Manager, Placement. During this, the panelist which included prominent alumni/industry experts, provided valuable insights into the entrepreneurial education provided by FDDI that caused the successful entrepreneurial behaviour.
Delivering the ‘Vote of Thanks’, Mr. Anil Kumar, AFHQCS, Executive Director (ED), FDDI, Jodhpur campus said, “As we celebrate Founder's Day, let us rekindle the passion and determination that fueled our founders' journey. Let their stories inspire us to strive for excellence, to embrace challenges as opportunities, and to work together towards a future that honors their vision.”
The event was sponsored by Nine k Nanotech, M.B. Rubber P. Ltd., Footwear Klick (Lancer), Derpa Industries, East West Tanners, Superhouse Ltd., XO Footwear, Alpine Apparels Private Limited, AFPL Global Private Limited, Today Footwear Private Limited, Super House Limited, Sibrama Newage, K H Exports India Private Limited, Savi Global Fashion, Rehman Industry Ltd., Harman Sales Private Limited, Corporate Infotech Private Limited, Allure Enterprises P Ltd., P & O International Private Limited, Star International Private Limited, Elixir, Singh Graphics, Unique, Midia Service, Ninex Nenotech P. Ltd., Sandhya Office Automation, Himalayan Traders, Lakme Academy, Raynold Stepcare, Punjab and Sind Bank.
