- 45th India International Trade Fair to be Held from November 14 to 27, 2026
- This Year’s Fair Theme: ‘Development and Heritage’
- Chhattisgarh Pavilion to Feature a Unique Showcase of Handicrafts, Herbal Products, Millets, and Folk Culture
Preparations are in full swing for Chhattisgarh’s participation in the 45th ‘India International Trade Fair,’ scheduled to be held from November 14 to 27, 2026, at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. A high-level review meeting regarding this was held today at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan, chaired by the Chief Secretary of Chhattisgarh, Mr. Vikas Sheel.
During the meeting, the Chief Secretary issued strict directives to ensure that the construction, security, branding, and other arrangements for the Chhattisgarh pavilion are completed within the stipulated timeframe and to a high standard of quality. The theme for this year’s prestigious fair is ‘Development and Heritage,’ which highlights the harmonious blend of the nation’s modern progress and its rich cultural traditions.
- Special Focus on Key Areas
Providing a Platform for Handicrafts and Local Products: The Chief Secretary noted that this trade fair serves as a significant platform for Chhattisgarh’s artisans, self-help groups, and entrepreneurs to showcase their craftsmanship and products on both national and international stages.
Showcasing Agriculture, Millets, and Forest Produce: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, along with the Department of Horticulture, has been instructed to present Chhattisgarh’s key millet varieties—such as Kodo, Kutki, and Ragi—as well as other unique agricultural products, in an engaging manner. Meanwhile, the Department of Forest and Climate Change has been tasked with making robust arrangements for the display and sale of Chhattisgarh’s herbal products through the Minor Forest Produce Federation. Promotion of Industrial Policies and Tourism
The Department of Commerce and Industry (the nodal department for this pavilion) has been instructed to undertake extensive promotion of the ‘New Industrial Development Policy 2024-2030’ and various investment schemes. Additionally, the Department of Tourism has been tasked with providing information on the state’s key tourist destinations, while the Department of Culture has been directed to outline the cultural programs to be featured.
- Village Industries and Handlooms
Preparations for the display and sale of handicraft products—facilitated through the Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Union and ‘Shabri’ (under the Department of Village Industries)—were also reviewed. The Chief Secretary inquired about the departmental preparations to enable artisans to showcase and sell their products through these channels.
- Cultural Presentations and ‘State Day’
Instructions have been issued to begin preparations for grand cultural programs and live performances by the state’s folk artists, to be held during the ‘State Day’ event at the Chhattisgarh Pavilion. Officials have been directed to ensure that Chhattisgarh’s exceptional art, culture, handicrafts, and industrial development are presented in a highly impactful manner.
- Fair Dates and Timings
The fair will be held from November 14 to November 27, 2026. The period from November 14 to November 18, 2026, is reserved exclusively for business and trade visitors, while the fair will remain open to the general public until November 27, 2026.
The review meeting was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Arun Pandey; Secretary of the Department of Commerce and Industry Mr. Rajat Kumar; Secretary of the Finance and Public Relations Department Dr. Rohit Yadav; Secretary of the Department of Culture and Tourism Dr. S. Bharathidasan; Director of Public Relations Mr. Ashish Tikariya; Managing Director of CSIDC Mr. Vishvesh Kumar; and other senior officials from the Department of Commerce and Industry and related departments.