Shopaholics throng India International Trade Fair in large numbers

By Chandrakala Choudhury New Delhi [India], Nov. 27 (ANI): Demonetisation has hit Delhiites hard, but has not stopped some of them from visiting the India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan to explore unique trade and business opportunities. Driven by the Make in India initiative this year's international trade fair has on display the repertoire of Indian handloom and handicrafts. The trade fair brought to life 7000 exhibitors from across the world. From the traditional waistcoats of Nagaland's Lotha tribe, exquisite jewellery made from materials such as beads, wild seeds, feathers of birds, green wings of beetles, brass, bones, ivory, silver and gold, artifacts of the state to unique headgears and the exclusively designed bamboo items of Assam and many more was the major attraction that attracted shopaholics. Besides these famous bamboo pickles, Naga king chilli, organic food products attracted buyers from all walks of life. Exhibitors also expressed their concerns about demonetisation. "We have the Naga King Chilli which is the world's hottest Chilli. This Chilli doesn't cause any gastric ulcer like the Green Chilli does and it also prevents heart attack and all. The response is ok, but I would say last time was much better, because this time people are facing difficulties to pay cash because of the change in currencies,"said Kazni, an exhibitor from Nagaland. However, the famous naga shawls, handloom bags and accessories are in demand. Speaking to ANI, Asini an exhibitor from Nagaland said, "We prepared these outfits from 'loiloom', 'flexit loom' or 'handloom' which are the traditional way. We have women working in self help groups who prepare various items and sell it in fairs such as the IITF. I would say this will give a boost to our trade and gives us an opportunity to be self dependent." "Items from Nagaland are excellent, it has great varieties. I visit every year and make sure that I purchase at least one product from anyone of the states of the northeast. Earlier, I have been to Tripura and Assam etc. This year, I have purchased a shoulder bag, and, I think, it's really good", added a customer. Whereas the Assam pavilion with the theme and logo of 'Digital Assam' showcased various e-initiatives like Ease of Doing Business, NRC up-dation, e-district, Community Service Centres, Land Records, e-procurement and Call Analysis and Tracking System. This year, 13 government departments/ agencies, 44 MSME units and four handmade organic tea producers have participated in the Assam Pavilion. Besides, that an array of Assamese jewellery including exquisite Keru, Thuriya, Golpata, Jonbiri etc were at display. Rekha from Delhi said that the Assam pavilion is the best and unique till now and that the products are really exceptional especially the bamboo items and also the prices are reasonable. However, the Manipur pavilion at the IITF drew the attention of the visitors for its unique Manipuri handloom and handicrafts items. Co-operative Societies and individuals from different parts of Manipur took part in the two-week long IITF that ends today. An exhibitor from Ukhrul district of Manipur said, "At first, we just made shawls and Mekhela and wraparounds, and now, we have a collection of waist coats. All handbags are made out of shawls and all. We have labourers and almost 21,000 people are working under working under different organizations and whenever such a trade fair is organized, these labourers from self help groups come together and prepare these items. People are still visiting our stalls and exploring our culture." Various sericulture products like Manipuri saris, shawls and Phanek etc. drew visitors, especially women from all parts of the country. A Mumbai customer said items from Manipur are very traditional and unique. Looking at these items, we can say that Make in India'dream may be realized sooner than later. (ANI)