LIDCAP Outlet Opens in Secretariat, Expanding Market for Leather Products

In a move aimed at revitalising the state's leather industry and providing sustainable livelihoods to traditional artisans, the Andhra Pradesh Government on Wednesday inaugurated a LIDCAP Leather Showroom at the Fourth Block of the AP Secretariat in Amaravati . The outlet was opened by Social Welfare Minister Dr. Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy and BC Welfare Minister S. Savitha , who reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting hereditary occupations through modern infrastructure and market access.

Speaking at the event, the ministers said the coalition government is working to ensure permanent employment , economic security , and improved income opportunities for leather-working communities. They noted that the government is equipping artisans with modern tools and technology , enabling them to enhance productivity while preserving traditional craftsmanship.

Dr. Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy said the government has launched a comprehensive effort to restore the stature of LIDCAP (Leather Industries Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh) , which has long played a key role in promoting the state's leather sector. As part of the revival strategy, leather manufacturing units are being established at Yadavalli in Markapur district and G. Konduru in Krishna district , creating fresh employment opportunities and expanding the state's leather production capacity.

Minister S. Savitha said the government's objective is to provide year-round employment for traditional artisans instead of seasonal work. She said the distribution of advanced equipment, along with better marketing support, would help improve productivity and increase artisans' earnings. The newly opened showroom will make high-quality leather products easily accessible to Secretariat employees and visitors, with a 10 percent discount being offered to Secretariat staff.

LIDCAP Chairman Pilli Manikya Rao said the corporation remains committed to the welfare and empowerment of leather artisans. He stated that the organisation had protected its valuable land assets from encroachment and is now focusing on expanding production, strengthening marketing networks, and making premium leather products available to a wider customer base.

Following the inauguration, Ministers Dr. Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy and S. Savitha purchased leather products from the showroom, symbolically expressing their support for locally manufactured goods and encouraging wider public participation in promoting products made by the state's artisans.

Established to support the leather industry, LIDCAP serves as the state's nodal agency for manufacturing, marketing, skill development, and entrepreneurship promotion in the leather sector. The opening of the Secretariat showroom marks another step in the government's broader strategy to strengthen traditional occupations, generate rural employment, and create sustainable market opportunities for leather-working communities across Andhra Pradesh.