Jammu & Kashmir Pavilion at 42nd IITF a major attraction

Jammu and Kashmir UT Day on 18th November 2023 showcased vibrant cultural offerings of J&K

NEW DELHI, November 29: In a momentous stride towards fostering economic growth and providing vital market linkages, the Jammu & Kashmir Trade Promotion Organisation (JKTPO) under the aegis of Industries and Commerce Department, Government of Jammu and Kashmir took centre stage as the “Focus State” at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2023 held at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from 14th November 2023 to 27th November 2023.

This initiative aligns with the vision of the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to empower local entrepreneurs by connecting them with significant opportunities on both domestic and international fronts.

India International Trade Fair(IITF) is one of the most prominent and prestigious Trade fairs not only in India, but in the whole world which attracts overwhelming participation from business leaders, industry experts, trade enthusiasts, innovators and potential partners, inducing collaboration and opportunities. The IITF witnessed participation from more than 3500 exhibitors from various parts of the country and across the globe, and more than 10 Lakh visitors visited the stalls and pavilion showcasing variety of products.

One of the key highlights was the august presence of Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha as Chief Guest on 18th November 2023 at 42nd IITF on the occasion of Jammu and Kashmir UT Day which not only brought added attention on the Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion but also proved to be a morale booster for exhibitors and artists of UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking on the occasion of Jammu Kashmir Union Territory Day celebration at IITF, Lieutenant Governor of J&K, Shri Manoj Sinha commended the marketing excellence endeavour of India Trade Promotion Organization for bringing together exhibitors, buyers, sellers, distributors, customers, small and medium enterprises, entrepreneurs and artisan under one roof.

The India International Trade Fair’s (IITF) theme this year is ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam-United by trade’ is offering an ideal platform to showcase state-of-the-art technologies, innovations and infinite variety of creative products, he said.

“J&K Pavilion at IITF is getting extraordinary response from domestic and international buyers. It has become most effective instrument to promote the tremendous market potential of J&K UT and build and strengthen the trade ties,” the Lt Governor said.

The Lt Governor also shared the J&K’s journey over the past few years. He said the UT is undergoing a rapid process of transformation. The change taking place in diverse sectors has given our entrepreneurs a new set of wings to achieve the new goals and tap into international markets, he added.

“Badalta Jammu and Kashmir is not just a slogan. It symbolizes the new aspirations, new hope of our entrepreneurs, business community, artisans and the revival of the ancient culture. I invite the business leaders and potential investors to invest in J&K,” the Lt Governor said.

Efforts are being made to provide J&K’s handloom, handicraft and agro sector access to global market. New handloom, Handicraft policy and other interventions have brought positive change in the lives of our artisans and skilled workforce, he said.

The Lt Governor also highlighted the key initiatives of the UT Administration to provide vast opportunities to women entrepreneurs and artisans to showcase their skills and contribute to the local economy.

The Lt Governor visited the J&K Pavilion at India International Trade Fair, and interacted with the exhibitors, entrepreneurs and artisans from Jammu Kashmir. He said the stalls put up at the Trade fair displaying products from J&K are a must-visit for all.

J&K is part of focus states/UTs this year and more than 122 exhibitors from the Union Territory are offering unique handicraft, handloom and agro-based products. Visitors and buyers can experience creativity of our craftspeople, weavers, and a wide canvas of agricultural products, the Lt Governor added.

The celebration of Jammu and Kashmir UT day on November 18, 2023, was a landmark moment, inaugurated by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Shri Manoj Sinha.

Distinguished officials, including Dr. Arun Kumar Mehta, Chief Secretary Govt. Of Jammu and Kashmir, Sh. Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary I&C and Sh. Khalid Jahangir, Managing Director JKTPO graced the occasion, reflecting the region’s prominent position at the 42nd India International Trade Fair.

A grand cultural program, featuring artisans from Jammu and Kashmir, showcased the Dogri and Kashmiri culture through mesmerizing dance performances. The event resulted in noteworthy sales, totalling Rs. 3.9 Cr and generated over 11000 business leads.

The pavilion was adorned with captivating features, including a video wall showcasing product profiles, success stories, crafts, tourist destinations, and infrastructure. TV screens strategically placed throughout the pavilion highlighted products, success stories, and the vibrant culture of Jammu and Kashmir. Live demonstrations of crafts, such as Kani Shawls, Sozni, wood carving, and paper machie, added an interactive dimension to the exhibit.

Notable among the offerings were the Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, including Saffron, Carpet, Kani Shawls, Pashmina Shawls, Honey, Basholi Pashmina, Sozni embroidery, Basholi Paintings, and Paper machie. The other products include Sarees, Kashmir Embroidery, Sozni, and Carpets to Walnuts, Red Chillies, Kidney beans, Honey, Lavender oil, Mushkbudji. The sectoral diversity was evident with exhibitors in Handloom and Handicrafts and Agri-Food Processing and Horticulture. Corporations like JK Minerals Ltd, J&K Agro Industries Dev. Corporation, J&K Industries, J&K Handloom &Handicrafts Development Corporation added a corporate dimension to the pavilion.

The Jammu and Kashmir Pavilion at IITF 2023 was not just a trade showcase, it was a celebration of the region’s economic resilience, cultural richness, and global appeal. Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotions Organization’s (JKTPO) active involvement in IITF 2023 underscores the region’s commitment to promoting its diverse and abundant culinary offerings, creating opportunities for trade, investment, and global connectivity. The participation of 123 artisans, farmers, and cooperative societies from various regions of Jammu and Kashmir showcased GI Tagged products, receiving positive responses in terms of sales and leads generated.