In the last few months there has been significant media coverage about plans of the India leather industry to grow its share in the global market. The industry has evolved from a supplier of raw hides to an acknowledged provider of quality finished leather, leather footwear, apparel and products. The leather industry is currently the eight largest foreign exchange contributor to the national economy and provides employment to an estimated 2.5 million people, largely from the weaker sections of society , a predominant portion of who are women. The leather industry as one of the important industrial sectors of the country advocates that stern action should be taken against those flaunting animal welfare laws. The industry is also seriously concerned about the alleged unhygienic practices at the abattoirs, which would pose a deadly health risk in meat supplied to local markets.
Remedial measures are essential, with active government action and industry support.
Renewed agitation against the Indian leather industry will serve no useful role in furthering the animal welfare reform programme in the country. On the contrary they could have the adverse effect of harming the interests of the large workforce, by disrupting orders from overseas buyers. Getting this kind of change to happen takes longer than many of us realise, but it will happen. The Indian leather industry is not directly involved with transport and slaughter of animals, which his essentially for meat. In the meantime, the CLE has moved to the area of direct involvement to ensure that there is progress in implementation of the proposed reform programme.