Dilip Guha ★ Greater Noida: The second edition of the UP International Trade Show was inaugurated by the Honorable Vice President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, on September 25, 2024, at the India Expo Centre & Mart in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
Shri Yogi Adityanath, Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh; Shri Jitan Ram Manji, Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt. of India, Shri Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi’, Minister of Industrial Development, Export Promotion, NRI, Investment Promotion, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh, Shri Rakesh Sachan, Minister of MSME, Khadi and Villages Industries, Sericulture Industries, Handloom and Textile, Govt. of Uttar Pradesh and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted that the state not only has the largest population in the country but also boasts the highest number of MSME units. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the UP International Trade Show-2024, he stated, “According to a survey, 96 lakh MSME units are spread across 75 districts in UP. After agriculture, this sector is the second-largest employment generator in the state.” The Expo aims to provide a platform for micro, small, medium, and large enterprises in Uttar Pradesh to showcase, sell, and expand their reach to a wider customer base in India and overseas. It’s also an opportunity for the state to promote its development model and showcase its products and services.
This Trade Show in Greater Noida has emerged as a vibrant platform for women entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative products and sustainable business practices. This event has provided them with a valuable opportunity to gain exposure, connect with potential customers and investors, and boost sales for their businesses. One of the remarkable stories from the trade show is that of Avnika Jain, an IIM Lucknow graduate, who introduced her brand “Debaans,” offering bedsheets and towels made from bamboo. Her initiative represents a sustainable business model and reflects the growing trend of eco-friendly products in the market. Similarly, Shivali Verma’s “Kaanch Kala” displayed artistic creations, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics.
Another one was Anju Mara’s participation in the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show is a testament to the enduring legacy and evolving innovation within Farrukhabad’s glass industry. With a history spanning over twenty years, Mara’s business not only honors the traditional significance of items like diyas (lamp) and bangles but also caters to contemporary tastes with a variety of glassware and decorative objects. Their successful expansion into international markets underscores the global recognition and quality of their craftsmanship. Events like UPITS are crucial for artisans to showcase their talents and connect with broader markets, supported by the state’s commitment to nurturing MSMEs, thus fostering a fusion of heritage and progress.
Expo also gives opportunity to new entrants to showcase their distinctive artifacts and innovations as the state govt promotes initiative to Indian art heritage. “Ornaet” is one such organization who are working to contribute to preserving and promoting forgotten art forms of India. Ornate was formally launched at the UP International Trade Fair. In the bustling city of Noida, a remarkable initiative is taking shape, spearheaded by two visionary women artists. Ornate, as the venture is aptly named, stands as a beacon of hope for the preservation and promotion of India’s diminishing art forms. Lekha Subharwal, the Director of Ornate, passionately articulates the mission of this initiative: to bring the spotlight back onto the rare and nearly extinct art forms that have been the pride of rural India for centuries. She said “We especially deal with women’s wear and home décor depicting rare and extinct art forms exclusively handcrafted and created by rural artisans across India. Generational artists are now increasingly stopping practicing their art forms as it is not economically viable for them.”
The Ornate’s approach is unique and commendable. They specialize in women’s wear and home décor, but what sets them apart is the authenticity and exclusivity of their products. Each piece is handcrafted by rural artisans, who pour their generational knowledge and skill into creating wearable art and decorative items that tell a story—a story of tradition, culture, and exquisite craftsmanship.
The challenge these artisans face is stark. The economic viability of continuing their traditional work is dwindling. Mechanization has introduced a competitive edge that these handwork experts cannot match, leading to a decline in demand for their intricate artistry. This is where Ornate steps in, not just as a business, but as a movement. By adhering to Fair Trade principles, Ornate is not only providing these generational artists with a platform but also ensuring they receive fair compensation for their invaluable work.
Ornate spans across India, creating a network of artists whose talents can be showcased on a global stage. The use of hand-woven cloth further emphasizes their commitment to authenticity and quality. This initiative is more than just a brand; it’s a testament to the resilience of India’s artistic heritage and a call to action for those who wish to see these art forms thrive for generations to come.
Crafted into wearable art for women and home décor, Ornate has four distinguished product lines including Bandhan (various forms of embroidery such as Kasuti, Chamba Rumal, Dongaria Kondh, and Phulkari); Surkh (art that uses colors such as Bandhej, Block and Sanjhi), Ehsaas (paintings such as Pat Chitra, Bhil, and Mandala) and Tana Bana (weaving such as Banarasi and Chanderi).
The products created using these art forms include Sarees, Dupattas, Stoles, Kurtas, and Skirts in women’s wear and runners, coasters, cushion covers, and scented candles in home décor. As Ornate continues to grow, it serves as an inspiring example of how traditional arts can be revitalized and appreciated in the modern world. It’s a reminder that behind every product is a human story, a legacy, and a piece of history that deserves to be cherished and sustained.
The event’s success is indicative of the remarkable progress of women entrepreneurs in India, who are increasingly taking center stage in business and innovation. Their commitment to sustainability and the support from MSMEs are creating new pathways for economic growth and environmental responsibility.
The UP International Trade Show serves as a beacon of inspiration and a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, especially among women who are leading the charge toward a sustainable future. It is a clear sign that with the right platform and support, women entrepreneurs can thrive and contribute significantly to the economy and society. This show is an ideal platform for Indian and foreign audiences, business visitors, and other stakeholders who are directly or indirectly associated with the development model of the state of Uttar Pradesh.
