The Uttar Pradesh government will organise trade fairs across all 75 districts between October 9 and 16, offering entrepreneurs free stalls to create new opportunities for small-scale manufacturers, artisans, and local businesses, officials revealed on Saturday (27 September). This initiative follows the success of the UP International Trade Show (UPITS) in Greater Noida, which gave businesses a stage to display products and reach buyers. These district-level exhibitions aim to deliver similar access to markets for towns and villages throughout the state.
Khadi and Village Industries Minister Rakesh Sachan announced the expansion of the programme, previously limited to divisional headquarters. “Trade fairs were earlier only at the division level, but seeing UPITS’ favourable results, the government is extending them to every district. Participants from various industries, including textiles, will be involved,” Sachan stated. The minister added that the government plans to open khadi showrooms in universities to make younger people aware of the fabric. “Unlike certain modern fabrics that can harm health and the environment, khadi stands out as pure, sustainable, and eco-friendly,” he said, emphasising khadi’s role both as tradition and as a green alternative.
Spotlight on Innovation and Infrastructure
During the UP International Trade Show, the state Fire Department’s cutting-edge booth drew large crowds. Attendees checked out sophisticated equipment like rescue cameras, thermal imaging systems, breathing sets, and even a robot for firefighting. The show also presented new firefighting vehicles sent to cities such as Meerut, Gorakhpur, and Lucknow, demonstrating the government’s push towards stronger emergency services in Uttar Pradesh.
Women Entrepreneurs Driving Change
The fair celebrated rising contributions from female business owners in the region. Nidhi Jain, who launched a chikankari embroidery venture in Lucknow from a single room eight years ago, described how official initiatives and simpler business rules powered her expansion. “Now I employ 30–40 women and manage studios in Noida. We are empowered and help build a self-reliant Uttar Pradesh,” she shared. Jain acknowledged that improved convenience, infrastructure, and market connectivity have driven her firm’s progress, noting, “Uttar Pradesh has seen historic change in eight and a half years. Running a business has become more straightforward and traders now reach both national and global buyers more easily,” reported The Indian Express.
