Varanasi/Greater Noida – Uttar Pradesh’s rich tradition of handicrafts and artisanal excellence is set to take center stage at the upcoming Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show (UPITS-2025), scheduled from September 25 to 29 at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida.
For the first time, a special pavilion will be dedicated exclusively to Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged products, highlighting the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the state. Officials say this initiative could provide a major boost to Uttar Pradesh’s goal of becoming a $1 trillion economy.
Global Spotlight on Banaras Craftsmanship
Among the highlights will be 32 GI-tagged products from Varanasi and surrounding districts, including Banarasi sarees, wooden lacquerware, Gulabi Meenakari, and brassware. These world-renowned crafts, deeply rooted in the heritage of Kashi, will be showcased to international buyers, traders, and diplomats.
Currently, Uttar Pradesh has 77 GI-certified products – 57 in handicrafts and 20 in agriculture and food categories. Of these, 60 products will feature at UPITS-2025.
“Booster Dose” for State Economy
Speaking ahead of the event, Padma Shri Dr. Rajnikant, popularly known as the ‘GI Man of India’, said that the trade show is expected to increase the business of GI products by 20–25%. He noted that nearly six million people in Uttar Pradesh are directly linked to GI product trades, with an estimated annual turnover of ₹1 lakh crore.
“This exhibition will give our traditional artisans global visibility and help revive dying crafts. It is a major step toward making Uttar Pradesh a $1 trillion economy,” Dr. Rajnikant added, while thanking Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for ensuring GI products get a dedicated platform.
Government Push for Branding and Markets
Over the past few years, the Yogi government has actively promoted GI and One District, One Product (ODOP) items on global platforms, with the Chief Minister himself acting as brand ambassador.
Umesh Kumar Singh, Additional Commissioner of Industries, said that UPITS-2025 will provide separate space for GI products, giving artisans direct exposure to international buyers and trade networks.
All Categories Covered
Uttar Pradesh is the only state in India with GI-certified products across all major categories, from handicrafts and handlooms to food and agricultural products. With the state leading the country in GI registrations, the dedicated pavilion at UPITS-2025 is expected to be a major attraction for visitors and buyers alike.
As artisans from Kashi and beyond prepare to display their heritage to the world, UPITS-2025 is being seen as a turning point that could transform Uttar Pradesh’s GI products from local treasures into global brands.
