NEW DELHI: In a significant move to propel India’s traditional industries onto the global stage, the "The Grand Expo 2026" was grandly inaugurated today at the State Emporia Complex, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place. Organized by the Art and Craft Development Institute (Ghaziabad, UP) with the steadfast support of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Government of India, this national festival is a key initiative under the Viksit Bharat Mission.
Running from February 22 to March 5, 2026, the expo is open to the public daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. It serves as a robust platform showcasing the diversity, creativity, and self-reliance of India’s MSME, handicraft, and handloom sectors. The primary vision of the Ministry is to provide local artisans with a global marketplace, transforming the "Local to Global" dream into a tangible reality.
Rajkumar Kashyap, Secretary of the Art and Craft Development Institute, noted that under the PMS scheme, over 60 MSME units from across the country are participating. With more than 100 stalls, the event offers a breathtaking glimpse into both traditional and contemporary Indian craftsmanship. "This expo is designed to act as a bridge, connecting our talented weavers and entrepreneurs directly with a wider consumer base," Mr. Kashyap added.
The exhibition features a vibrant collection from states including Jammu & Kashmir, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Odisha, and Rajasthan, among others. Visitors can find a treasure trove of products under one roof—from Silk Sarees and Kashmiri Shawls to Blue Pottery, Madhubani Paintings, Terracotta, and exquisite hand-carved metal and wooden decor.
Beyond commerce, the expo is a celebration of India’s soul. Every evening from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, the venue transforms into a cultural hub with folk music and dance performances. A dedicated food zone featuring regional delicacies further ensures that the event is a feast for the senses.
Pramila Tiwari, Chairperson of the Institute, emphasized that their mission over the last 25 years has been the economic empowerment of artisan communities and the preservation of traditional skills. The successful execution of this massive event has been coordinated by Ranjana Chitkara and managed by Vikas Gaur. For residents of the capital and international tourists alike, "The Grand Expo 2026" offers a holistic experience of Indian heritage, perfectly embodying the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat.