Grand pavilion planned at Bharat Mandapam from November 14–27; state to promote herbal products, tourism and investment opportunities
TFP Bureau, Raipur, October 21, 2026: Chhattisgarh will showcase its rich cultural heritage, traditional handicrafts, agricultural products and industrial potential at the 45th India International Trade Fair (IITF), scheduled to be held at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, from November 14 to 27.
Preparations for the state’s pavilion were reviewed at a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel at Mantralaya Mahanadi Bhawan on Wednesday. The theme of this year’s fair is “Development and Heritage”, highlighting the relationship between economic progress and cultural traditions.
The Chief Secretary directed departments to complete construction, security, branding and other arrangements within the stipulated timeframe, ensuring high standards of quality and presentation.
Focus on local products and tribal heritage
The Chhattisgarh pavilion will provide a platform for artisans, self-help groups, weavers and entrepreneurs to display and sell their products to domestic and international visitors.
The Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Horticulture departments have been asked to showcase the state’s traditional millet varieties, including kodo, kutki and ragi, along with other agricultural and horticultural products.
The Forest and Climate Change Department will coordinate the display and sale of herbal products under the Chhattisgarh Herbal brand through the Chhattisgarh State Minor Forest Produce Federation.
Handicrafts and handloom products facilitated by the Handloom Weavers’ Cooperative Union and Shabri, under the Village Industries Department, will also feature at the pavilion.
The initiative is expected to provide wider market exposure to local producers and highlight the state’s traditional skills and forest-based livelihoods.
Investment policy and tourism in spotlight
The Commerce and Industry Department, the nodal agency for the pavilion, has been directed to promote the state’s New Industrial Development Policy 2024–2030 and investment opportunities.
The Tourism Department will highlight major tourist destinations across Chhattisgarh, while the Culture Department will coordinate cultural presentations showcasing the state’s diverse folk traditions.
Officials have been asked to ensure that the pavilion presents a comprehensive picture of Chhattisgarh’s cultural identity, handicrafts, industrial development and investment potential.
Folk performances planned for State Day
Preparations are also under way for cultural programmes and live performances by folk artists during Chhattisgarh’s designated State Day at the fair.
The Chief Secretary directed officials to ensure that the state’s art, culture and industrial progress are presented attractively to visitors. The cultural programme is expected to complement the display of traditional products and provide visitors with a glimpse of Chhattisgarh’s heritage.
Business visitors first, public entry thereafter
The India International Trade Fair will run from November 14 to 27, 2026. The first five days, November 14–18, have been reserved exclusively for business and trade visitors. The fair will open to the general public thereafter and continue until November 27.
The review meeting was attended by Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Arun Pandey; Commerce and Industry Secretary Rajat Kumar; Finance and Public Relations Secretary Rohit Yadav; Culture and Tourism Secretary Dr S.; Director of Public Relations Ashish Tikariya; CSIDC Managing Director Vishvesh Kumar; and senior officials from the Commerce and Industry Department and other concerned departments.
