Himachal Chief Secy opens expo to promote textile heritage

With an aim to celebrate the country’s rich textile traditions as well as to empower artisans through technology, innovation and market access, the Union Ministry of Textiles inaugurated ‘EKTA’-Exhibition-cum-Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage at the historic Gaiety Theatre in the state’s capital. It was formally inaugurated by Prabodh Saxena, Chief Secretary of the state.

Based on the theme “From Loom to Lifestyle: A Future Woven with Tradition”, the exhibition, which will continue till May 26, is a joint effort of the Ministry of Textiles and Himachal Pradesh Government to showcase Himachal Pradesh’s emerging strengths in wool, jute and silk, promote sustainable livelihoods and integrate artisans into national and global textile value chains.

Speaking at the inauguration, Saxena said that EKTA is a significant initiative by the Centre with involvement from various ministries and departments. He noted that the event would not only provide tourists with an immersive cultural experience but also give artisans from across the country an opportunity to present their talent to a wider audience.

Shubhra, Trade Adviser at the Ministry of Textiles, shared that nearly 75 stalls from states such as Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir have been set up. She added that the exhibition places special emphasis on handmade products and underlined the immense employment potential within India’s rapidly growing textile industry.

Besides the exhibition, a three-day series of knowledge sessions is being organised at the Gaiety Theatre, Shimla, from May 19 to 21. These sessions have been tailored to support self-help groups, young artisans and craft entrepreneurs with insights into schemes like PM MITRA and SAMARTH, market linkage opportunities, skill-building programmes and branding strategies for local products. Participants will also explore ways to boost exports and strengthen the presence of region-specific crafts through digital platforms.