On 21 July 2026, FDDI celebrated its 40th anniversary, commemorating four decades of significant contributions to education, innovation, research and skill development across the footwear, fashion, leather and retail sectors.
The celebration was held at FDDI Noida Campus in the presence of the Managing Director, Executive Director, senior officials, faculty and employees, with members of the FDDI fraternity from campuses across India joining virtually, reflecting the Institute’s spirit of unity and collective progress.
Mr. Vivek Sharma, IRS, MD, FDDI, addressed the gathering on “FDDI’s Four Decades of Contribution and the Vision Ahead”, presenting an overview of the Institute’s journey and strategic roadmap. He highlighted FDDI’s strengths, opportunities and areas requiring focused attention, while underscoring its academic foundation, industry-oriented curriculum, skilled faculty, nationwide presence and status as an Institution of National Importance. He reiterated the vision of strengthening global collaborations, digital transformation, research excellence, entrepreneurship and sustainability, and called upon the FDDI fraternity to work collectively towards the goals of Vision 2030.
The programme commenced with a reflection on FDDI’s remarkable journey since its establishment in 1986, followed by the ceremonial unveiling of the FDDI@40 commemorative logo, symbolising the Institute’s four-decade legacy and aspirations for the future.
Ms. Manju Maan, Executive Director, FDDI Noida, highlighted the Institute’s ongoing reforms, strategic initiatives and Vision 2030, with emphasis on academic excellence, industry-driven research, digital transformation, international collaborations, entrepreneurship and sustainable development.
Executive Directors from various campuses also shared their reflections on the Institute’s remarkable four-decade journey, highlighting key achievements, milestones and contributions of their respective campuses, while also outlining their aspirations and priorities for FDDI’s continued growth and development in the years ahead.
A key highlight was the premiere of the “FDDI@40 Legacy Film”, showcasing the Institute’s milestones, pioneering achievements and contributions over four decades, while acknowledging the collective efforts of its faculty, staff, students, alumni and industry partners.
The celebrations also featured the unveiling of the special commemorative issue of FDDI’s magazine, “Creative Horizons”, titled “FDDI: 40 Years of Excellence”, documenting the Institute’s remarkable growth, achievements and impact over the past four decades.
As part of the Foundation Day celebrations, FDDI Jodhpur also organised an Interactive Session with Industry Experts for trainees and newly admitted students. Shri Niren Anand and Shri Shreyansh shared valuable insights on industry expectations, career opportunities and skill development. The session further strengthened FDDI Jodhpur’s commitment to industry–academia connect and encouraged students to become confident, skilled and future-ready professionals.
The 40th anniversary celebrations served as both a tribute to FDDI’s rich legacy and a reaffirmation of its commitment to shaping a future driven by excellence, innovation and global relevance.
