New Delhi, Aug. 13 -- A team of experts from Italian luxury brand Prada visited Maharashtra's Kolhapur on Wednesday to meet local artisans and review the manufacturing process of the region's iconic flat sandals, just days after facing accusations of cultural appropriation.

The visit follows a parliamentary standing committee on commerce recommending that the government take proactive steps to promote traditional Indian leather products under the 'Make in India' initiative.

The aim, the panel said, is to secure global recognition, safeguard artisan rights, and prevent imitation by international brands, as seen in the Kolhapuri chappals controversy.

India's leather industry employs over 4.42 million people, with women accounting for 40 ...