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Odisha to showcase its rich cultural heritage, traditional crafts at IITF-2026

Bhubaneswar, Nov 13 (UNI) Odisha is all set to take centre stage at the 45th India International Trade Fair (IITF)-2026 in New Delhi, presenting a vibrant showcase of its rich civilisational heritage, exquisite traditional crafts, diverse natural resources, entrepreneurial spirit and emerging economic opportunities.
The Odisha pavilion in the prestigious trade fair, one of India's leading platforms for trade, commerce, industry and cultural exchange, will be inaugurated on November 14 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, Chief Secretary Anu Garg said.
The Odisha Pavilion will bring together an impressive range of products, achievements and initiatives from various State government departments, agencies, institutions, cooperatives, producer organisations and entrepreneurs.
Visitors will get an opportunity to experience the State's distinctive identity through its exquisite handlooms, Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, handicrafts, tribal art, agricultural produce, forest-based products, dairy items, rural enterprises and tourism attractions.
A major highlight of the pavilion will be Odisha's celebrated handloom and handicraft traditions. The display will feature Sambalpuri textiles, cotton, tussar and silk products, Pattachitra paintings, palm-leaf engravings, silver filigree, Dhokra craft, stone and wood carvings, applique work and several other traditional creations that reflect the exceptional craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Adding to the attraction, live demonstrations of silver filigree, Dhokra casting, stone carving and traditional weaving will allow visitors to witness the intricate techniques and painstaking efforts involved in creating these masterpieces. A special demonstration of blockchain-enabled handloom weaving will also showcase how traditional craftsmanship is embracing modern technology to enhance transparency, authenticity and innovation.
Women's empowerment and grassroots entrepreneurship will receive special attention through Mission Shakti, which will showcase a wide range of products made by women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs). These will include Sabai grass crafts, tribal jewellery, Paper Mache products, millet-based food items, ready-to-eat delicacies, handlooms and handicrafts, highlighting the growing contribution of women to Odisha's rural economy.
Similarly, rural producer organisations participating through the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) will showcase an extensive range of locally produced goods. Golden Grass crafts, spices, millet products, pickles, Mahua-based products, coir crafts and traditional food items will reflect the strength of community-based enterprises and the growing potential of rural livelihoods.
The pavilion will also offer a glimpse into Odisha's rich tribal heritage and biodiversity. Traditional paintings of the Gond and Lanjia Saora communities, the distinctive Dongaria Kondh shawl, Minor Forest Produce, value-added tribal products and the renowned Koraput Coffee will form an important part of the exhibition.
These displays will celebrate the indigenous knowledge, artistic traditions and cultural identity of tribal communities while highlighting their significant contribution to the State's economy and sustainable development.
Odisha's agricultural diversity and growing potential in food processing will be showcased through an impressive range of products, including millets, black rice, traditional rice varieties, cashew, honey, spices, mustard oil and value-added millet-based products. The exhibits will underline the State's commitment to sustainable agriculture, nutritional security and the promotion of traditional food systems.
Odisha Tourism will further enhance the pavilion's appeal by inviting visitors to explore the State's timeless destinations and diverse cultural landscapes.
From the architectural splendour of the Sun Temple at Konark and the spiritual significance of Jagannath Dham in Puri to the breathtaking beauty of Chilika Lake, pristine beaches and vibrant tribal regions, the tourism showcase will highlight Odisha as a destination offering a unique blend of heritage, spirituality, nature and adventure.
UNI DP
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