New Delhi, Nov 14: Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Saturday inaugurated the state’s pavilion and Palash outlet at the India International Trade Fair (IITF) 2026 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, showcasing the state’s cultural heritage, rural economy, women’s entrepreneurship and traditional crafts under the theme “Development and Heritage”.
Jharkhand is participating in the annual trade fair as a FocusState this year, providing a national platform to highlight its traditional industries, local products, development initiatives and economic potential.
Following the inauguration, Soren paid tribute to tribal icon Lord Birsa Munda and freedom fighters Sido-Kanhu by garlanding their statues. State Industry Minister Sanjay Prasad Yadav was also present at the ceremony.
Addressing the occasion, the Chief Minister said Jharkhand regularly participates in the India International Trade Fair to showcase the state’s achievements and initiatives. He said this year’s theme, “Development and Heritage”, reflects the government’s efforts to bring Jharkhand’s rich cultural identity and development progress to the national stage.
He highlighted the state’s rural economy, the contribution of women’s self-help groups, support for artisans and craftspeople, and development initiatives being undertaken across different regions. These efforts, he said, along with the state’s distinctive strengths and potential, were being showcased at the fair.
Upon his arrival, the Chief Minister was welcomed with a traditional Jhumar dance. He subsequently toured the pavilion and visited various stalls, where he learned about Jharkhand’s traditional handicrafts, art and culture, local products and entrepreneurship initiatives.
Special emphasis at the pavilion has been placed on strengthening the rural economy, expanding the participation of women-led self-help groups and promoting local artisans and craftspeople. Traditional products, including tussar silk and handicrafts, are also being showcased to connect Jharkhand’s local enterprises with wider markets.
Various departments of the state government have put up displays highlighting their achievements, schemes and initiatives, presenting the state’s cultural legacy alongside its development prospects.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Rural Development Department Secretary Manoj Kumar, Industries Department Secretary Arwa Rajkamal, Tourism Department Director Naman Priyesh Lakra and Industries Director Vishal Sagar, among other senior state government officials.
