FDDI Chandigarh in Collaboration with DGR Launches Specialized Certificate Course for Retiring Defense Personnel
Banur, April 22, 2025:
The Footwear Design & Development Institute (FDDI), Chandigarh campus, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Resettlement (West Zone), officially launched a twelve-week Certificate Course in Footwear Manufacturing and Retail Operations, tailored for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) approaching retirement from active defense service.
The inaugural event was graced by Brigadier Randeep Singh Chattha, Additional Secretary, Directorate General of Resettlement (West Zone), as the Chief Guest. He was warmly welcomed by Ms. Pragya Singh, Executive Director, FDDI Chandigarh, who also addressed the gathering and welcomed the participating JCOs.
In her address, Ms. Singh highlighted FDDI’s rich legacy of over three decades in footwear education and its contribution to skill development and entrepreneurship. She emphasized the value of hands-on learning that this course provides, focusing on real-world applications that can lead to self-employment and business ventures post-retirement.
The comprehensive program blends 80% practical training and 20% theoretical instruction, covering core areas of footwear design and development, retail operations, and supply chain understanding. The course also integrates workshops, industry visits, and guest lectures by domain experts, ensuring holistic exposure to the footwear industry.
Brigadier Chatha, during his address, appreciated the state-of-the-art infrastructure and laboratory facilities at the FDDI campus. He noted the practical relevance of such a course for ex-servicemen, particularly highlighting the critical importance of a “good and durable shoe” in the life of an army personnel. He described his visit to FDDI as “highly fruitful” and expressed confidence in the institute’s capacity to prepare retiring personnel for the next phase of their professional journeys.
Dr. Avinash Bajpai, Nodal Officer for the program, provided an overview of the course structure, its objectives, and expected outcomes. He concluded the event by delivering the vote of thanks, extending gratitude to the Chief Guest, all dignitaries, and the participating trainees.
This collaborative initiative reflects FDDI’s commitment to skill development and the empowerment of retiring defense personnel through structured, industry-aligned education and training.
