Overview
The 44th India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam, served as a dynamic showcase of India’s economic diversity. With the theme Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat (One India, Great India), the fair brought together traditional crafts, farm enterprises, startup innovations, and regional specialities from across states. More than 3,500 participants shared their stories of labour, heritage, and aspiration.
Key Highlights of IITF 2025
Inauguration and Objectives
Inaugurated on 14 November 2025, the fourteen-day event provided a platform for first-generation entrepreneurs, rural artisans, and home-grown brands to test demand, connect with buyers, learn from peers, and access state support mechanisms. For many exhibitors, IITF represents a crucial step into a larger national marketplace, reflecting a confident, steadily growing, and self-reliant India.
Background on IITF
- The India International Trade Fair (IITF) is organised annually by the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) since 1980.
- It is one of India’s most significant platforms for MSMEs, artisans, startups, and industries to connect with buyers and expand their market reach.
- In 2024, the fair drew over one million visitors, reaffirming its status as one of the country’s most awaited trade events.
Venue: Bharat Mandapam
IITF is held at Bharat Mandapam, a modern convention and exhibition complex built within the Pragati Maidan precinct and inaugurated in 2023. Spanning 123 acres, it includes a 7,000-seat convention hall, seven exhibition halls, and more than 100,000 m² of display area. The ITPO hosts nearly 90 events each year, positioning New Delhi as a leading international exhibition destination.
Artisans and Entrepreneurs in Focus
Bihar: Sridhi Kumari – Bhagalpuri Silk
Sridhi Kumari, a 45-year-old artisan from Bihar, showcased her Bhagalpuri silk and zari workcraft. As a first-time participant at IITF, she represents women-led entrepreneurship, showcasing Bhagalpuri silk that holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. She received support from the Bihar government through its women-entrepreneurship schemes.
Bihar: Tarun Pandey – Baavanbuti Sarees
Tarun Pandey, a 49-year-old weaver from Nalanda, displayed his Baavanbuti sarees. This marked his eighth participation at IITF. He earns the equivalent of nearly two to two-and-a-half months of his income from IITF.
Maharashtra: Prahlad Ramrao Borgad – Organic Farmer
Prahlad Ramrao Borgad, a 51-year-old farmer from Maharashtra’s Hingoli district, showcased organic pulses, turmeric, ginger, and spices under his brand ‘Surya Farmers’. He adopted organic farming in 2012 and formally launched his enterprise in 2015 with support from his local Self-Help Group and the MSME department. He earns profit equivalent to four to five months of his income at IITF.
Maharashtra: Rukmani Ganeshpat Salge – Godhari Quilts
Rukmani Ganeshpat Salge from Latur displayed quilts crafted in the historic Godhari art form. This was her first year at IITF. Each Godhari quilt takes four to five days of hand-stitching.
Exam Relevance
This article is relevant to GS3 (Economy), focusing on the role of trade fairs in promoting MSMEs, rural entrepreneurship, and traditional crafts. It also touches upon GS1 (Indian Culture) through the discussion of regional specialities and traditional art forms. The role of government policies in supporting entrepreneurs aligns with GS2 (Government Policies).
Key Takeaways for UPSC Aspirants
- Understand the role of IITF as a platform for promoting trade and economic growth.
- Recognize the importance of government support in enabling participation of artisans and farmers in trade fairs.
- Appreciate the significance of Geographical Indications (GI) in preserving and promoting regional crafts.
- Analyze the impact of such platforms on income enhancement and market access for traditional artisans.