CSIR-CLRI: The Indian research hub turning fish skin into fashion

The CSIR-Central Leather Research Institute (CLRI) celebrated its 79th Foundation Day on April 27, 2026, marking nearly eight decades of pivotal contribution to the global leather industry. Dr. P. Thanikaivelan, Director of CSIR-CLRI, welcomed guests and dignitaries, reflecting on the institute’s historical role and the legacy of its past leadership in shaping the growth of the leather sector since its inception.

The event featured the “BM Das Memorial Lecture,” delivered by Chief Guest Dr. D. Srinivasa Reddy, Director of CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT). Titled “Efforts in Drug Discovery through Natural Products and Process Development with Low Carbon Footprint,” the lecture highlighted the critical intersection of R&D and sustainability, detailing efforts in synthesizing organic molecules to advance drug discovery while maintaining a low carbon impact.

In a move to strengthen academic and scientific synergy, the institute signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Vels Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies (VISTAS). Represented by Dr. Preethaa Ganesh and Dr. T. Sasipraba, the collaboration aims to foster joint research and academic activities, further expanding the institute’s interdisciplinary reach into biotechnology and engineering.

CSIR-CLRI demonstrated significant strides in intellectual property for the 2025-2026 financial year, filing seven Indian and two international patents alongside five copyright registrations. This focus on novel technologies and industrial applications underscores the institute's commitment to knowledge creation. During the ceremony, the institute recognized its inventors, patentees, and authors of high-impact journal articles with appreciation certificates and mementoes.

A notable highlight was the release of a specialized brochure, “Leather & Leather Products from Fish Skin,” which exemplifies the valorization of discarded fish by-products into high-value commercial materials. This innovation aligns with the institute's broader environmental engineering and wastewater treatment research, showcasing the role of circular economy principles in traditional manufacturing.

The celebrations concluded with a series of outreach and ‘Open Day’ programmes, attracting over 400 students and faculty members. Visitors engaged with technical experts across key research areas, including polymer and bio-based materials and data science applications. The program ended with a vote of thanks by K.M. Sridhar, Senior Controller of Administration, cementing the institute's position as a leader in science and technology for the leather and allied sectors.