At least 18 States will participate in the 13th National Handloom Expo, 2014 beginning on Wednesday here at the IDCO Exhibition Ground. The event will culminate on February 14, 2014.
Being organised by the Odisha State Handlooms WCS ltd widely known as Boyanika, the apex society of the State for marketing of handloom products, nearly 100 stalls will be opened to showcase hand woven fabrics of various States. All the stalls will be under CCTV surveillance.
“The basic objective of the 24-day-long expo is to preserve, protect and promote the age old weaving heritage of our country. We are expecting a business of Rs 7 crore this year compared to Rs 5.80 crore last year,” State Textile, Handlooms and Handicrafts Secretary Surendra Kumar told reporters.
Kumar too informed that a special discount of 10 per cent of State Government rebate would be allowed on all items at the Odisha stalls. Out of the 100 stalls, 25 will be allotted to the Boyanika. The expo will remain open from 1 pm to 9 pm every day. Handlooms, Textiles and Handicrafts Minister Sarojini Hembram is scheduled to inaugurate the event.