Associated News Bureau

Ladakh Pavilion Showcases Rich Cultural Heritage, GI-Tagged Products at IITF 2026; LG Vinai Kumar Saxena Calls for Global Market Outreach

NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 14: Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh, Shri Vinai Kumar Saxena, on Saturday inaugurated the Ladakh Pavilion at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026, being held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship and indigenous products. The pavilion features 14 stalls with the participation of 17 entrepreneurs from Ladakh, offering visitors an opportunity to explore a diverse range of authentic, Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products. These include the world-renowned Ladakhi Pashmina, traditional handloom and handicrafts, embroidery, sea buckthorn, apricots and other indigenous products. Speaking on the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor said the exhibition represents the realisation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Make in India’ and taking local products to global markets. He observed that IITF provides an important platform for artisans and entrepreneurs to gain national and international recognition, establish market linkages, strengthen local livelihoods and boost the rural economy. He also appealed to people to visit the Ladakh Pavilion and explore the region’s rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship and organic products. Following the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor visited various stalls and interacted with participating entrepreneurs and artisans. He appreciated their craftsmanship, business initiatives and efforts to preserve Ladakh’s traditional skills while taking indigenous products to wider markets. Encouraging the entrepreneurs, he stressed the importance of maintaining product quality, innovation, effective branding and stronger market linkages to enhance the visibility and competitiveness of Ladakhi products at national and international levels. The Lieutenant Governor also interacted with students and youth from Ladakh pursuing their studies at various educational institutions in Delhi. Emphasising the importance of preserving the region’s distinct cultural identity, he urged the younger generation to take pride in their heritage, language, traditions, customs and values while pursuing modern education and opportunities. Describing the youth as ambassadors of Ladakh’s cultural identity, he encouraged them to represent the region’s rich traditions across the country and internationally. He also called upon them to utilise their knowledge, talent and aspirations for the development of their homeland and contribute towards building a progressive Ladakh while remaining connected to their cultural roots. Ladakh’s participation in IITF 2026 reflects the UT Administration’s continued efforts to promote indigenous products, strengthen traditional industries, empower local entrepreneurs and artisans, encourage youth participation and connect the region’s unique offerings with wider national and international markets. The Ladakh Pavilion stands as a prominent showcase of the region’s cultural identity, traditional craftsmanship, entrepreneurial potential and aspirations on a national platform. ANB