EKTA exhibition to celebrate state’s textile heritage, rural innovation

A special exhibition titled “EKTA” (Exhibition-cum-Knowledge Sharing for Textile Advantage) will be held in Shimla from May 19 to May 26, jointly organised by the Union Ministry of Textiles and the Government of Himachal Pradesh. The event aims to showcase locally crafted products created by self-help groups (SHGs) from across the state, said Shimla Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap on Thursday.

The exhibition will span multiple iconic venues in the capital, including the historic Gaiety Theatre, Mall Road, Padam Dev Complex and The Ridge, offering visitors a rich experience of Himachal’s diverse textile traditions.

DC Kashyap shared these details during a meeting with Moloy Chandan Chakraborty, Jute Commissioner, National Jute Board, Kolkata, to finalise the arrangements. He highlighted that Khushala Cluster Federation, known for its longstanding work in the jute sector, will be allotted free stalls to display and sell their products. “The National Jute Board will also conduct training sessions to help federation members design and market modern jute-based products,” he added.

The DC emphasised the potential of such exhibitions to boost the rural economy, noting that alongside the exhibition, special workshops for SHGs will be held from May 19 to 21 at Gaiety Theatre, with daily sessions from 11 am to 5.30 pm covering a variety of relevant topics.

Speaking on the occasion, Jute Commissioner Chakraborty said the EKTA platform is designed to highlight Himachal’s growing strength in wool, jute and silk craftsmanship, with a focus on promoting sustainable livelihoods. He added that the initiative seeks to integrate local artisans into national and global textile value chains. Government programs such as PM MITRA, SAMARTH, Silk Samagra and National Jute and Handicraft Development initiatives are contributing to a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures fibre-based rural entrepreneurship.

In addition to jute and wool products, the exhibition will showcase district-specific specialties from across Himachal. Chakraborty remarked that India’s textile sector is a cornerstone of the country’s economy and culture and Himachal’s traditional crafts—especially Kullu, Kinnauri, and Chamba shawls—reflect the region’s rich wool heritage.

While jute is traditionally linked to eastern India, it is increasingly being adopted in Himachal for its eco-friendly qualities and potential in textile and geo-textile innovation, opening up new avenues for rural employment and product diversification, he added.

Himachal Tribune