EVENT UPDATE

Giriraj Singh Opens Handloom & Handicraft Exhibition at IITF 2025

Published: November 24, 2025

Author: Fashion Value Chain

Textiles Minister Giriraj Singh Opens Handloom and Handicraft Exhibition at IITF 2025

Union Minister of Textiles Giriraj Singh inaugurated the Special Handloom & Handicraft Exhibition-cum-Sale at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Neelam Shami Rao, Secretary, Ministry of Textiles, and senior officials also graced the inauguration.

Focus on Expanding Opportunities for Artisans

Addressing the audience, Giriraj Singh stated that global demand for handcrafted products continues to rise. Therefore, the 15-day fair will create meaningful economic opportunities for artisans, helping improve their livelihoods. He also shared plans for a new Hub-and-Export model aimed at taking Indian craftsmanship to global markets.

Strengthening the Handloom Value Chain

During the pavilion tour, the Minister interacted with participating weavers and artisans. He highlighted the Government’s efforts to support the sector through raw material assistance, technology upgrades, design improvements, and market linkages. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to empowering weavers and craftspeople, positioning India as the world’s largest sustainable handcraft ecosystem.

Theme: Vastra Kala — Bharat ki Virasat

This year’s pavilion celebrates India’s timeless textile heritage through a regional journey of craft traditions:

North – Reflection & Ancestral Grace: Featuring Banarasi weaves and motifs like Ganesha and Ram Darbar
South – Precision & Devotion: Showcasing Karnataka and Tamil Nadu’s wood, silk and metal craftsmanship and the dynamic Natraj form
East – Memory & Continuity: Highlighting Odisha and Bengal’s handwoven traditions rooted in identity and culture
West – Radiance & Desert Brilliance: Presenting mirror work, lippan art and carved wood reflecting festive desert culture

Exhibition Details

The event runs from 14th to 27th November 2025, open to visitors from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM in Hall No. 5, Ground Floor, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. With 200 stalls from 29 states and UTs representing 53 unique crafts, the exhibition is managed by the National Handloom Development Corporation (NHDC) to provide direct market access to artisans.

Live demonstrations such as Kani weaving and Sajni embroidery offer an immersive craft experience. The exhibition also features distinguished talent, including: