Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurates Artefacts-2026

Jodhpur, Rajasthan 16th January 2026: The 2nd Edition of Handicrafts Expo (Artefacts)-2026, organised by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) from 15th to 19th January 2026, at the Trade Facilitation Centre (TFC) in Boranada, Jodhpur was inaugurated today by Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Govt. of India, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.

The ceremony saw august presence of Jogaram Patel, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Law & Legal Affairs, Legal Consultancy and Justice, Govt. of Rajasthan alongwith. Nirmal Bhandari, Member CoA, EPCH; Prominent member exporters Radhe Shyam Ranga, Hansraj Baheti, Naresh Bothra, Gaurav Jain, Manish Mehta, Priyesh Bhandari; Rajesh Rawat, Executive Director, EPCH and members from the Jodhpur regions were present.

While addressing the august gathering Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Govt. of India, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat shared that “Handicrafts Expo (Artefacts)-2026 at Jodhpur’s magnificent Trade Facilitation Centre exemplifies India’s living cultural heritage, where each handcrafted masterpiece narrates centuries-old stories of artistry and tradition. I commend EPCH for creating this dynamic platform that bridges our timeless craftsmanship with contemporary global markets, positioning Indian artisans on the world stage.

Union Minister further shared “As Minister of Culture & Tourism, I celebrate, how this expo weaves India’s creative legacy into economic empowerment, connecting gifted artisans directly with institutional buyers, sourcing professionals and designers. He spoke about orange economy (creative economy) and it’s importance in the overall growth and development of the region. He further added that in the present global environment where tariff-related uncertainties are impacting trade, India must respond with unity and strategy. “We must stand together, follow an India-first approach and work collectively towards market diversification, deeper buyer outreach and product/value-chain strengthening,” he said, adding that targeted incentivisation and supportive measures from the government are in consideration which will further help artisans and enterprises scale up, remain competitive and expand India’s footprint across new and emerging markets.

Gajendra Singh Shekhawat alongwith Jogaram Patel and other dignitaries toured the fair and interacted with exhibitors. The minister also met the artisan’s deputed by O/o Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India. He visited their stalls and interacted with them.

Echoing this sentiment, Nirmal Bhandari, Member CoA, EPCH said that “Today’s grand inauguration by Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat marks a historic milestone for Jodhpur TFC, which was further beautifully complemented by the mesmerizing evening Rajasthani folk cultural performances which added a distinctly regional flavour and enriched the overall visitor experience. With curated displays and engaging programming, the Expo kept visitors engaged, encouraged repeat visits and ensured that exhibitors receive sustained footfall and meaningful interactions throughout the remaining days of expo.”

Rajesh Rawat, Executive Director, EPCH shared that “We are honoured by the visit and inauguration by the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, Govt. of India Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, which has given strong momentum to Artefacts-2026 and encouraged our exhibitors and artisans. Day 2 of Artefact-2026 marks an important milestone with the visit of Minister and under his guidance EPCH remains focused on delivering measurable outcomes for exhibitors through strong buyer mobilisation, structured engagement and exhibitor readiness.”