By: Satyaprakash Dwivedi

At the 44th India International Trade Fair in New Delhi, the Khadi pavilion has become one of the most visited spaces, reflecting this year’s theme of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.’ The pavilion brings together the cultural and craft identity of every region of India, aligning closely with national campaigns such as ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local.’

More than 150 stalls have been dedicated to Khadi and village industry crafts, including handcrafted textiles, rural food items, bamboo and cane creations, natural beauty products and traditional carved artwork. Visitors are drawn to iconic specialties like Pashmina shawls from Jammu and Kashmir, Kanchipuram silk from Tamil Nadu, wood carving from Andhra Pradesh and natural skincare collections from Jharkhand.

Live demonstrations such as hand-spinning, traditional oil extraction and pottery wheels offer an immersive experience. A unique feature, the podcast booth titled ‘Baat Khadi Ki Hai,’ allows artisans to share their journeys, skills and cultural heritage in their own voices, making the space not just an exhibition but a storytelling experience celebrating India’s craft legacy.

KVIC leadership highlights growth and innovation at IITF

The India International Trade Fair in New Delhi is also showcasing the evolution of Khadi under the leadership of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC). Executives at the pavilion shared that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership over the last eleven years, Khadi has transformed into one of the most trusted and fast-growing Indian brands. Its market value has now crossed USD 20.4 billion, reflecting rising consumer interest in local, sustainable and handmade products.

KVIC Chairman Shri Manoj Kumar has strongly promoted natural wellness, herbal goods and indigenous raw-material-driven manufacturing across Khadi platforms. This push directly supports farmers, rural producers and traditional craft communities while aligning with the national movement of ‘Vocal for Local.’

Nearly 40 percent of the pavilion’s stalls have been allocated to Khadi manufacturing organizations, while the remaining stalls feature products from PMEGP and SFURTI units. A specialty attraction, the Kangra Valley tea counter in Hall 6, offers more than 40 regional tea varieties and has received high visitor engagement for its authentic Himalayan flavors.