Smriti Irani wishes success to 'IHGF-Delhi' fair

The 49th edition of 'IHGF-Delhi Fair' was virtually inaugurated by Smriti Zubin Irani, Union Minister of Textiles and Minister of Women and Child Development on July 14.

The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi also sent in his good wishes to 'Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts' for the virtual fair amidst Coronavirus crisis and said it reflects the indomitable spirit to continue furthering the efforts to strengthen the handicrafts sector. In his message, the prime minister also conveyed that Indian handicrafts have been celebrated the world over for their artistic innovation and creative richness and has carved a niche in the International market. He also said that the world is seeing India as a trustworthy and reliable partner and India is also working towards building a self reliant and self-sufficient India. He urged everyone to be vocal about the locals, so that our local products grow into global brands and this will take the handicraft sector to new heights of vibrancy and prosperity.

While inaugurating the fair, Smriti Irani said that during the pandemic, 'EPCH' brought 'IHGF Delhi fair' on a virtual platform, in which a large number of exporters will be showcasing beauty and workmanship of Indian handicrafts. Small, micro and medium exporters of India will be happy to engage with buying agents, buying houses from across the world in the virtual fair. She also wished success for everyone associated with the fair.

Ravi K Passi, Chairman of 'EPCH' said, "The challenges posed before us during this COVID-19 crisis had led us to brainstorm and to present before the exporters a viable alternate business model in the form of virtual fair. This is a much bigger show as it is a multi-products show displaying a wide range of home, lifestyle, fashion, furniture and textiles products."

Neeraj Khanna, President of the virtual fair, also said, "It is totally a new initiative by 'EPCH' and a much needed one at this critical time of COVID-19 pandemic. 'EPCH' has brought this virtual fair and I am sure this will open many new windows of opportunity for all of us."

"Every crisis brings with it an opportunity and this pandemic has given us an opportunity to provide our member exporters with an alternative marketing platform as a virtual fair," said Rakesh Kumar, Director-General, 'EPCH'.

House-wares, bathroom accessories, lawn, garden ornaments and accessories, lamps, lighting and accessories etc will be on display.

The main countries from where buyers are coming include Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chad, Chile, China and many more. Buyers from companies/ departmental stores, who have already confirmed their visit to the show includes 'Cost Plus World Market', 'Anthropologie', 'Ralph Lauren', 'WKND-WYFR', 'Urban Outfitters', 'Mudpie', 'Cracker Barrel' etc. Not only overseas buyers, but department stores of renowned countries will make their presence on the virtual platform.