59th LERIG conclave concludes at CSIR-CLRI: Driving the SCALE agenda

The 59th Edition of the Leather Research Industry Government (LERIG) Conclave, hosted by CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CSIR-CLRI), was organized on February 2, 2026, at the Chennai Trade Centre, Nandambakkam. Positioned as a crucial precursor to the industry’s future roadmap, the event gathered key stakeholders from the leather, chemical, and product sectors. Technical sessions offered strategic insights into the core theme titled as ‘Sustainability and Circular Approaches for the Leather Economy’ (SCALE).

Dr. P. Thanikaivelan, Director of CSIR-CLRI, welcomed the gathering and emphasized that sustainability and circularity are no longer optional but indispensable for the industry's survival and growth. In his presidential address, Padma Shri M. Rafeeque Ahmed, President of AISHTMA and Chairperson of the Farida Group, noted that global markets are now steered by consumer preference for eco-conscious goods. He highlighted that "lasting quality and responsibility" are the primary drivers allowing the leather industry to secure its place within the circular economy.

A major highlight of the conclave was the exchange of a Technology Transfer agreement between CSIR-CLRI and M/s. Infinite – Art to Heart, Chennai. This agreement pertains to specialized process technology for producing leather for musical instruments, developed under the CSIR-Fast Track Translational Project.

The event also featured a designer workshop focused on the fundamentals of colour, vision, and the evolution of Indian design. Industry experts emphasized market-oriented solutions that harmonize modern consumer expectations with traditional craftsmanship. Furthermore, Dr. P. Thanikaivelan launched the brochure for a new Advanced Footwear and Bags Design Training Course, set to be offered by CSIR-CLRI in upcoming academic sessions. The conclave concluded with a high-level panel discussion, "Roadmap for Sustainable Development of Leather Sector," moderated by Dr. P. Saravanan, Scientist G, CSIR-CLRI.

The 59th LERIG Conclave serves as a critical bridge between laboratory research and industrial application. By focusing on the SCALE initiative, the event underscores India’s commitment to aligning its leather sector with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards. Such conclaves are vital for fostering the triple-helix collaboration between research institutes (CLRI), the government, and private industry. Ultimately, LERIG 2026 reinforces India’s position not just as a high-volume producer, but as a global leader in sustainable, design-led, and technologically advanced leather manufacturing, directly supporting the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

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