ENA Sectors 2025-01-17 16:10:52 <p><span style="font-size:14px"><strong>Prayagraj, Jan 17 (KNN)</strong> The ongoing Maha Kumbh at Prayagraj is turning out to be a game-changer for Uttar Pradesh's handicraft industry, with officials predicting a remarkable Rs 35 crore in trade during the 45-day fair.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This marks a significant rise from the Rs 4.3 crore generated during the last Kumbh in 2019, signalling the growing appeal of the states unique crafts.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">One of the main attractions of the fair is the One District, One Product (ODOP) exhibition, set up across a sprawling 6,000 square meters.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Visitors, after taking a dip in the Sangam, are flocking to this exhibition to explore the wide array of handicrafts on display.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">From Kushinagars carpets to Firozabads colorful glass toys, Varanasis wooden toys, and the delicate zari-zardozi work, the exhibition is a true celebration of Uttar Pradesh's rich craft heritage.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">Sharad Tandon, Joint Commissioner of Industries in Prayagraj, shared his excitement about the boost in business this time around. We are looking at a massive growth in sales, which will open up new job opportunities and empower local artisans, Tandon said.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">In an added boost for entrepreneurs, e-commerce giant Flipkart has set up a stall at the fair, offering artisans a chance to sell their products online without any charges.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">This partnership bridges the gap between traditional crafts and modern retail, providing a wider market for local products.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The ODOP initiative also highlights 75 geographical indication (GI) products from the state, including famous items like Banarasi sarees, Pratapgarhs amla, Mirzapurs brass utensils, and Gorakhpurs terracotta.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">With 34 of these products hailing from the Kashi region, the exhibition helps preserve and promote these unique items, giving them global recognition.</span></p> <p><span style="font-size:14px">The Maha Kumbh is not just a spiritual event; its evolving into a crucial economic platform for Uttar Pradeshs artisans, offering them opportunities to thrive and reach new heights.</span></p> <p><strong><em><span style="font-size:14px">(KNN Bureau)</span></em></strong></p> 40691 https://knnindia.co.in/news/newsdetails/sectors/ups-handicraft-industry-expects-rs-35-crore-trade-at-maha-kumbh 2025-01-17 16:10:52 knnindia.co.in