In a recent development for Tamil Nadu’s industrial landscape, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin on Friday laid the foundation stone for a new manufacturing unit of Taiwanese footwear giant Dean Shoes at the SIPCOT Industrial Park in Jayankondam, Ariyalur district.
The ambitious project, spearheaded by Long Yin Investment (Dean Shoes), involves a massive ₹1,000 crore (~$118Million) investment, expected to generate employment opportunities for 15,000 individuals in this industrially backward region.
The move is a significant boost to the state’s reputation as a leading hub for non-leather footwear manufacturing. Industries Minister T.R.B. Rajaa emphasized that this investment represents a transformative step towards equitable industrial growth across districts like Perambalur, Ranipet, and Ariyalur.
A remarkable highlight of this initiative is its focus on women’s employment. According to Minister Rajaa, 90% of the jobs created by this new venture will be allocated to women, reinforcing the government’s commitment to the “Dravidian Model” of inclusive growth.
“Women are the backbone of this project. This initiative is not just about industrial development; it is about empowering women and uplifting communities,” Rajaa stated.
With this development, Tamil Nadu further solidifies its position as a global leader in the footwear industry. The state is already a manufacturing powerhouse, contributing to over 32% of India’s total footwear production.
It houses factories producing products for globally renowned brands like Nike, Crocs, New Balance, Adidas, and Puma.
“Yet another non-leather footwear major in Tamil Nadu! Another TNGIM 2024 MoU has now turned into an investment!”
Minister Rajaa
The minister highlighted how Tamil Nadu’s strategic initiatives, under the Tamil Nadu Global Investors Meet (TNGIM), have been instrumental in attracting international investments and turning commitments into actionable projects.
The foundation-laying ceremony, presided over by Chief Minister Stalin, was attended by Dean Shoes’ Vice Chairmen Otto Yang and Rich Chang, along with other state ministers and officials.
This project marks the beginning of a promising growth phase for Ariyalur, a district previously overshadowed in terms of industrial opportunities.
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