Uttar Pradesh launches five-year footwear, leather and non-leather development policy

Uttar Pradesh's Footwear, Leather and Non-Leather Sector Development Policy, effective from its notification date, aims to attract domestic and foreign investment across the full production chain, including footwear, accessories, machinery and design facilities. Projects qualify as new, expansion or diversification ventures, with expansions needing a minimum 25% increase in gross block and diversification requiring a distinct product line.

The policy offers a suite of incentives such as up to 25% capital subsidy (capped at Rs 1,200 crore), full stamp-duty exemption, power-tariff subsidies, and reimbursements for training, patents and sustainability certifications. Private industrial parks meeting specific unit and land-use criteria can receive up to 25% of eligible infrastructure costs. Applications are processed by the Directorate of Industries via an online portal, with proposals under Rs 150 crore reviewed by an empowered committee and larger projects needing cabinet sanction. No consolidated data on applications, approvals or disbursements have been published, and the policy’s impact will depend on forthcoming implementation guidelines and the development of common environmental infrastructure.