Union MoS for Heavy Industries Inaugurates EPCH’s Handicrafts Expo Narsapur-2025

Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh 22nd March 2025: The Handicrafts Expo Narsapur – 2025, organised by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) from 21st to 25th March 2025, at the International Lace Trade Centre (ILTC), Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh was inaugurated today by Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries & Steel, Govt. of India.

The ceremony also saw august presence of Dr. Nimmala Rama Naidu, Minister of Water Resource Development & MLA, Palakol; Bommidi Nayakar, MLA, Narsapuram; Pitani Satyanaryana, MLA, Achanta; Kothapalli Subba Rayudu, Chairman, A.P. State Kapu Corporation along with Members COA EPCH K N Tulasi Rao, Ravi K. Passi; R. K. Verma, Executive Director, EPCH, other senior officials and members from the Andhra Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Union Minister of State for Heavy Industries & Steel, Govt. of India said “I congratulate team EPCH and stakeholders from Narsapur for creating this phenomenal platform where visitors from all over the nation are visiting. He added that the show is a great opportunity, especially for artisans from across the craft & heritage rich to showcase their products and connect with the audience. He further highlighted the importance of the handicraft industry in India’s economy, particularly in rural employment generation and export potential”.

 Minister also inaugurated a state-of-the-art Dyeing Unit at ILTC, Narsapur along with the dignitaries. This modern dyeing unit is equipped with advanced eco-friendly technology, ensuring minimal environmental impact while preserving the rich heritage of traditional dyeing techniques.

Dr. Nimmala Rama Naidu, Minister of Water Resource Development & MLA, Palakol shared that “the prestigious event, held in Narsapur, Andhra Pradesh, celebrates the rich heritage of Indian handicrafts, providing a unique platform for artisans and industry stakeholders to showcase and promote the country’s finest handcrafted products. Handicrafts are not just products; they are a representation of India’s rich cultural heritage and the skills passed down through generations.

Dileep Baid, Chairman of EPCH, remarked, “The displays at Handicrafts Expo Narsapur – 2025 feature one-of-a-kind creations that beautifully capture the essence of craftsmanship, tradition and innovation. These treasures not only reflect India’s rich cultural heritage but are also designed to suit contemporary global trends. This event marks the beginning of a highly anticipated fair series, showcasing the creativity of craftsperson who have been presenting their exquisite craftsmanship and unique products to the world.”

Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Chief Mentor in the role of Director General EPCH & Chairman – IEML, informed, “This seamless integration of India’s rich craft traditions into a modern, sustainable business model such as Handicrafts Expo Narsapur -2025, is thoughtfully designed to benefit all stakeholders involved. The inclusion of award-winning craftspeople ensures the event is enriched with authentic, artisanal works that beautifully reflect India’s diverse cultural heritage. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of crafts, including Wooden Crafts, Horn & Bone Crafts, Zari & Zari Crafts, handmade leather products, Embroidery and Crocheted crafts, Artmetalware etc.”

Dr. Neeraj Khanna, Vice Chairman, EPCH, shared, “This expo marks a new era for the handicraft industry in Narsapur, providing a robust platform for artisans to gain recognition and expand their markets. Our goal is to make Indian handicrafts globally competitive while preserving their traditional essence” Echoing this sentiment,

Sagar Mehta, Vice Chairman, EPCH, added, “Narsapur, renowned for its rich heritage, chivalry and gastronomy, has also emerged as a prominent hub for Lace and crocheted products.”

K. N. Tulasi Rao, Member, Committee of Administration (CoA) EPCH and Prominent Member Exporter from Narsapur, added, “The fair will welcome visitors on all days from 11 AM to 8 PM, functioning as a B2C event. It aims to encourage on-the-spot sales while offering significant opportunities for volume buyers. In addition to retail shoppers and many other professionals.” He further added “Over the five days, a specially curated Kid Zone will offer an exciting array of fun-filled activities, interactive games, and hands-on workshops. Additionally, the fair will feature a diverse selection of delectable cuisines and regional delicacies, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for all visitors.”

Mr. R. K. Verma, Executive Director, EPCH said, “EPCH has been regularly making efforts to promote regional crafts by curating marketing platforms for trade, especially for micro and small entrepreneurs, artisans and crafts persons to showcase their heritage craft skills. Vibrant lines by these enterprises are also among attractions for the visitors to the show.”

Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts is a nodal organization for promotion of exports of handicrafts from the country and create brand image of magic of the gifted hands of millions of artisans and crafts persons engaged in production of home, lifestyle, textiles, furniture, and fashion jewellery & accessories in craft clusters of the country. The overall Handicrafts exports during the year 2023-24 was Rs. 32,759 Crores (US $ 3,956 Million) informed R. K. Verma, Executive Director – EPCH.