Jute Products Captivate Lucknow Residents at Uttar Pradesh International Trade Expo
The Uttar Pradesh International Trade Expo (UPITEX) 2025, being held at the Indira Gandhi Pratishthan from 23 to 27 January, is witnessing significant admiration for beautiful jute products among Lucknow residents. These products not only promote eco-friendliness but also present a unique alternative to cheap Chinese items. Organized by the UP State Chapter of PHDCCI in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME, Invest UP, and ODOP Uttar Pradesh, this expo offers substantial government support to jute producers. A conclave on "How Digital Transformation is Helping Industries" was also organized, featuring insights from experts across various sectors.
Key speakers included Shri Atul Srivastava (Regional Director, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI), Shri Vivek Agarwal (Co-Chair, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI), and Shri Sanjeev Sarin (Chair, Retail State Subcommittee, UP State Chapter, PHDCCI).
The event's chief guest, Ms. Neha Jain (IAS, Special Secretary, IT & Electronics Department, Government of Uttar Pradesh, and Managing Director, UPDESCO), delivered the inaugural address.
Panel Discussion on MSME Growth through Digital Transformation
The panel featured prominent industry experts, including Shri Amol (Owner, BK Sarraf Jewellers), Shri Ankit Sahni (Founder & CEO, The Hazelnut Factory), Shri Varun Gupta (Founder, Mapasil.com), Shri Rajnish Rawat (Managing Director, Origins Advertising Ltd.), and Ms. Devna (Head of Marketing, Bharuwa Solutions Pvt. Ltd.).
The Inspiring Story of Gaining a GI Tag for Ghazipur
Kaiser Jahan Ahmed from Ghazipur showcased handmade wall hangings that captivated attendees. He shared, "This craft has been part of our family since my father’s time, inspired by an Englishman’s suggestion. We create intricate designs like Life of Tree, Seven Horses, Ganesh Ji, Marine Life, and Farmhouses using jute. Recognition of our work grew significantly after receiving a GI tag. We worked tirelessly for this achievement. Currently, we have over 1,500 orders from Nepal and 500 from Mussoorie. Through this art, we have provided employment to over 200 people, with constant support from the National Jute Board."
Competing with China: Doorbell and Lampshades
Gaurav Verma from Delhi presented decorative jute items like hanging birdhouses, lampshades, and doorbells. He remarked, "I often saw short-lived, environmentally harmful plastic Chinese products in homes. That inspired me to create durable, eco-friendly, and affordable jute products."
Dedicated to the Environment
B.S. Bisht from Delhi shared, "Growing up in Uttarakhand, I noticed tourists leaving behind piles of plastic waste. This motivated me to contribute to environmental preservation. I started by designing jute bags to reduce plastic use. We now offer table accessories, flooring, and wall hangings, priced between ?50 and ?1,500."
Gopal Shaw, Executive Assistant at the National Jute Board, Delhi Regional Office, emphasized that the government is actively supporting jute artisans by providing training and financial assistance.
Digital Transformation: A Boon for Industries
During the conclave on "How Digital Transformation is Helping Industries," Chief Guest Ms. Neha Jain highlighted, "When working alone, your voice may not always be heard, but joining an organization like PHDCCI ensures your collective suggestions reach the government. The Uttar Pradesh government has launched initiatives like ?5 lakh loans for young entrepreneurs, the Invest UP platform, and the Udyam Sarthi app for business registration and guidance. GST is a prime example of digital transformation, but product quality should always remain a priority."
Shri Atul Srivastava added, "Digital transformation is crucial, with 96 lakh MSMEs registered in the state playing a pivotal role in national development."
Shri Vivek Agarwal noted, "The expo has attracted a large audience from across the state, reflecting its success. Just as we’ve seen revolutions in manufacturing and agriculture, this is the era of digital evolution, driven by the internet."
Shri Sanjeev Sarin expressed, "Change is inevitable, and digital transformation is essential for the retail industry’s growth. MSME development is vital to advance the retail sector."
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Shri Atul Srivastava, expressing gratitude to all attendees.
