HANDICRAFTS

Telangana's Tur Dal reaches Australia: Piyush Goyal says India's GI products are winning the world as first-ever 2.5 MT Tandur pigeon pea exported

Telangana’s GI-tagged Tandur Tur Dal has reached Australia through its first-ever export shipment of 2.5 metric tonnes, announced by Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal. He said rising global demand for authentic Indian agricultural products is creating financial opportunities for farmers and exporters.

Blue Dart launches International Parcel Connect for SMEs, D2Cs

This service will enable e-commerce, D2C brands, and SMEs to connect with global customers. With options that cater to both premium and budget-conscious shipping needs, it accommodates parcels from 50 g to 11 kg, ensuring enhanced tracking.

Govt proposes questions on women entrepreneurs, electricity use in ASUSE 2027-28 as survey moves to financial year

The government is proposing new questions for the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises beginning in 2027. These questions will focus on women entrepreneurs, electricity sources, and fixed-asset investments. The survey will shift to a financial year format to align with other surveys. Gender-specific constraints faced by female entrepreneurs will also be captured for the first time. This initiative aims to improve data on India's unincorporated economy for policy discussions.

MoSPI to start annual unincorporated sector enterprises survey from April 2027

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation will conduct the Annual Survey of Unincorporated Sector Enterprises from April 2027. New questions will address gender-specific constraints faced by female entrepreneurs for the first time. Additionally, the survey will capture the investment in fixed assets over an extended period. The survey period has shifted to align with the financial year for better data utility.

India's textile industry targets $350 billion by 2030 as exports rebound, costs rise: Report

India's textile industry has seen significant growth, expanding to nearly USD 190 billion in FY26. The sector aims for USD 350 billion by 2030, driven by domestic demand and manufacturing investments. Despite challenges like rising cotton prices and trade uncertainties, textile exports grew by 10.3 percent year-on-year in the April-August 2026 period. Notably, the United States remains India's largest export destination, although market diversification is being pursued.

Piyush Goyal flags India’s ‘AI-proof’ strengths, pushes tech, investment ties with Germany

India, Russia aim for $100 billion trade by 2030 as Modi, Putin push cooperation

Indian Ambassador Vinay Kumar announced collaboration plans between India and Russia to increase trade significantly. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin have directed efforts toward enhancing mutual investments. India is ready to provide qualified workers to meet Russia's industry requirements by training specialists. The leaders reviewed these plans during their recent meeting at the BRICS summit in New Delhi.

Piyush Goyal asks ministry to identify AI-proof jobs, eyes handlooms, handicrafts and tourism, says India can lead in traditional sectors

Union Minister Piyush Goyal is guiding efforts to identify AI-proof professions that leverage India's skilled labor force. He emphasized the nation’s strengths in sectors like handlooms, handicrafts, and tourism. Goyal plans to attract Indian scientists and engineers from overseas to contribute to India’s growth. Discussions are ongoing regarding how to create a supportive ecosystem that encourages talent to return home.

UP village to Lakmé Fashion Week: Women from Biskohar turn a weed that chokes ponds and lakes into handmade fashion creations for runway

Women in Biskohar, Uttar Pradesh, are turning invasive water hyacinth into handcrafted products, with designer Anurag Gupta showcasing their work at Lakmé Fashion Week. The initiative aims to create livelihood opportunities for marginalised women, but sustained demand, fair payment and regular orders will determine whether the craft can provide dependable income.

Who is Russian entrepreneur Michael Tseytin who built ‘Stone Palace on the hill’ in New Jersey spanning 32,507 sq ft, with real gold chandeliers and a ballroom?

Michael Tseytin, an entrepreneur with Russian roots, has designed an exquisite estate in Saddle River, New Jersey. This remarkable residence spans an impressive 32,505 square feet and takes inspiration from the Winter Palace found in St. Petersburg. It features lavish elements including 13 bedrooms, a grand ballroom, and a racquetball court, all of which highlight craftsmanship with materials sourced from Russia.

SARAS Mela moves beyond Delhi-NCR, brings 1,500 rural women entrepreneurs to Vijayawada

The National SARAS Mela in Vijayawada showcases around 1,500 women entrepreneurs from various states and union territories. Organized under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission, the event focuses on market access. Workshops on branding, packaging, and digital marketing enhance business skills for participants. The government aims to help women achieve sustainable incomes of at least Rs 1 lakh annually.

Commerce Ministry organizes “Leveraging FTAs” outreach program in Jaipur to boost exports

The Commerce Ministry organized an outreach event in Jaipur, targeting exporters to clarify the use of benefits provided by India's free trade agreements. This initiative aims to translate preferential market access into tangible export opportunities for Indian enterprises, emphasizing Rajasthan's strengths in textiles, handicrafts, and gems. Plans for coordination among stakeholders are outlined to optimize support for exporters moving forward.

Rs 3,600 crore business enquiries at 5-day handicraft fair

Over 7,300 buyers participated in the 62nd IHGF Delhi Fair held from October 13 to 17. Business enquiries at the fair totaled Rs 3,600 crore, demonstrating strong international interest. Buyers from 105 countries, including the US, UK, and Germany, were present. Many brands indicated a significant shift toward sourcing more products from Indian manufacturers. India's handicraft exports reached $3.75 billion for the fiscal year 2025-26.

NABARD Supports 21-Day Livelihood and Enterprise Development Programme for 60 SHG Women in Delhi

The programme aims to empower SHG women by enhancing their skills, promoting entrepreneurship and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities.

India's trade deficit widens to $30.21 billion in September despite 23% jump in exports

In September, India's merchandise trade deficit expanded to $30.21 billion from $26.86 billion in August. Exports experienced a notable boost, increasing by 23.04% year-on-year with total figures at $44.4 billion. The growing trade gap signals a significant difference between imports and exports, surpassing economists' expectations of a $30.4 billion deficit. Nonetheless, these figures suggest strong ongoing momentum in India's export activities.

Overseas buyers from 100 countries to engage with 3,000 exhibitors at 62ndIHGF Delhi Fair this week

India’s handicraft sector is looking to strengthen its global reach as the 62nd IHGF Delhi Fair brings together over 3,000 exhibitors and buyers from around 100 countries in Greater Noida from October 13-17. With major international retailers and Indian brands expected, the event aims to open fresh sourcing opportunities for local artisans and exporters.

Zubin Karkaria says VFS Global may launch ‘Study in India’ product to attract international students

India is experiencing significant growth in its Travel and Tourism sector, driven by a rapid economy. The World Travel and Tourism Council recently discussed India's potential for global tourism leadership. Key industry leaders highlighted the importance of showcasing India's diverse states and attracting international students. Minister Gajendra Shekhawat emphasized the government's focus on promoting tourism alongside trade and technology.

Less than 8% of India’s national highways are now narrower than two lanes: High-speed corridors grow 12 times as government plans 51,000 km of faster roads

India’s national highway network is undergoing a major shift, with roads narrower than two lanes now accounting for just 8% of the total network. While high-speed corridors have expanded more than 12-fold, trucks in India still cover far less distance daily than those in the US and China. The government aims to develop around 51,000 km of high-speed corridors over the next decade to improve connectivity and freight movement.

Apples, cherries, dry fruits & handicrafts from Kashmir to reach Delhi & Mumbai faster? How Chenab Rail Bridge, Anji Khad Bridge & 272-km all-weather rail link are changing trade & travel

The Chenab Rail Bridge and Anji Khad Bridge have strengthened rail connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of India through the 272-km Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link. The connection is expected to improve the transportation of apples, cherries and other local products to major markets, ease the movement of essential goods and make passenger travel more convenient through services such as the Vande Bharat Express.

Next-gen GST reforms: Single registration, easier input tax credit among key MSME demands

The 57th GST Council meeting, now slated for October 8, 2026 (Thursday), is likely to consider several proposals aimed at easing the compliance burden for small businesses in the country.

Anarchy, Mafia rule no longer UP's identity, says Yogi Adityanath, hails Bhadohi's carpet exports

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath addressed the International Carpet Fair celebrating the state's economic progress since 2017. He noted that the region has shifted from anarchy to improved security and infrastructure, benefiting local artisans and businesses. Adityanath mentioned significant investments made in various sectors, enhancing the state's expressway network and airport facilities. The government's initiatives, particularly One District One Product, have revitalised local industries, especially carpets.

Khadi over the decades: How Gandhi’s fabric found a new life

Khadi remains an important symbol of India's independence and has significantly grown as a commercial entity. The sales and production of khadi textiles have increased dramatically over the past decade. Initiatives are underway to expand khadi's presence in global markets and enhance digital sales platforms. Strengthening artisans' skills and enhancing market competitiveness are key focus areas for future growth.

Mizoram’s Anthurium Festival returns, bringing flowers, adventure and Mizo heritage together in a new tourism experience

Presented by Mizoram Tourism in association with the Department of Horticulture, Government of Mizoram, the festival, being held from October 1 to 3, is designed to take visitors beyond a conventional flower festival into mountain trails, flower gardens, traditional games, local villages, food, crafts and the living cultural heritage of the State.