Bhadohi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has announced plans to develop Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi as a major silk cluster, in a move aimed at strengthening traditional industries, handicrafts, exports and employment in eastern Uttar Pradesh.
Addressing the golden jubilee edition of the 50th India Carpet Expo at the Carpet Expo Mart in Bhadohi, the Chief Minister said the Varanasi-Vindhya Regional Development Plan would also be implemented soon. He said coordinated development of the region would help connect traditional skills with modern technology, improved infrastructure and international markets.
The India Carpet Expo, being held from October 4 to 7, has brought together more than 450 international buyers from 65 countries and over 227 exhibitors. Buyers from BRICS nations are also participating in the event.
Yogi said Bhadohi’s carpet industry had gained wider market access through the One District One Product initiative. He highlighted the district’s GI-tagged handmade carpets and the role of the Indian Institute of Carpet Technology in providing training in design, dyeing and textile technology.
According to figures shared at the event, around 2,500 MSME units operate in Bhadohi, generating annual business estimated at nearly ₹10,000 crore and providing direct employment to more than five lakh people. The Chief Minister said about 90 per cent of carpets produced in Bhadohi are exported to international markets.
He said improved road, air and inland waterway connectivity would further support exporters. The proposed expansion of the Ganga Expressway towards the Vindhya region could eventually provide faster connectivity between Bhadohi and Noida International Airport, while cargo facilities at Varanasi airport and the Varanasi-Haldia inland waterway could offer additional logistics options.
During his interaction with carpet exporters and entrepreneurs, several industry representatives urged the government to formulate a dedicated policy for handmade carpets. They pointed out that handmade carpets require considerably more time and labour than machine-made products and therefore need a policy framework reflecting their distinctive production process.
The Chief Minister said the suggestion would be considered and acknowledged the contribution of artisans who have preserved the craft across generations.
Women entrepreneurs also raised the issue of greater representation in the Carpet Export Promotion Council. They sought dedicated representation for women in the council’s decision-making structure. Yogi directed the council to work towards increasing women’s participation and assured that the matter would receive consideration.
The Chief Minister also highlighted Uttar Pradesh’s broader industrial expansion, citing investment proposals, growth in manufacturing units and the expansion of MSMEs and industrial infrastructure.
He said the development of the Bhadohi-Mirzapur-Varanasi silk cluster, along with the regional development plan, could create stronger linkages between traditional crafts, manufacturing, tourism, logistics and global trade.
The event was attended by public representatives, senior officials, CEPC representatives, exporters, manufacturers, artisans and buyers from India and abroad.
