Chennai: The 57th edition of the CSIR-CLRI LERIG Conclave, held on November 6-7, 2024, at the Triple Helix Auditorium, successfully concluded with insightful discussions and key initiatives for the future of the Indian leather industry.

Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General of CSIR and Secretary DSIR, visited CSIR-CLRI on November 7, where she engaged with industry leaders.

Her discussions focused on two critical areas: the indigenous production of essential materials and machinery for the leather and footwear sectors.

Dr. Kalaiselvi also inaugurated the renovated Crèche Building at the CSIR-CLRI campus.

The Conclave featured the Prof. Y. Nayudamma Memorial Lecture by Dr. Kalaiselvi on "Turning Trash to Treasure," showcasing CSIR's waste-to-wealth technologies. Key panels discussed the "Future of Leather and Footwear," focusing on sustainability and industry development in Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and Maharashtra.

Day two covered "R&D Needs for Non-Leather Footwear Materials" and "Advancements in Machinery for Indigenization," emphasizing eco-friendly production, material innovation, and reducing import dependency.

The event promoted collaboration between industry and research institutions for sustainable sector growth.