GI Mahotsav Opens in Shimla with Strong Response; Visitors Flock to Explore Authentic GI Products
The Xpo Originals GI Mahotsav commenced today at The Peterhof Hotel, Chaura Maidan, Shimla, receiving an enthusiastic response on its opening day. Scheduled
Shimla 27 March ( PDL ) : Shimla the exhibition features 45+ stallsshowcasing over 100 Geographical Indication (GI) certified products from across India. The first day witnessed a strong turnout of visitors, including both locals and tourists, who gathered to explore India’s rich and diverse cultural heritage. The vibrant atmosphere and wide variety of offerings ensured that hardly anyone left without a shopping bag, reflecting the strong interest and engagement from attendees. The exhibition brings together artisans, producers, and sellers from different parts of the country, featuring some of the rarest GI-certified products from the farthest corners of India. Visitors can explore unique offerings such as Agates of Cambay, Baluchari Sarees, Bhagalpur Silk & Fabrics, Madhurkathi, Karvath Kati Sarees, along with specialty food products from Manipur including Chak Hao (black rice), Tamenglong Orange, Sirarakhong Hathei (chilli), and Kachai Lemon. In addition, a wide range of handwoven sarees, textiles, jewellery, handicrafts, home décor, fabrics, agricultural products, spices, syrups, footwear, fruits, toys, and more are on display.
All products are GI-certified, assuring authenticity, high quality, and a deep-rooted cultural identity. Visitors particularly appreciated the quality, uniqueness, and diversity of the products, along with the opportunity to interact directly with artisans and purchase from the source. An important highlight of the event was the visit of Dr. Rajneesh, IAS, Additional Secretary & Development Commissioner, MSME, along with R.D. Nazeem, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Himachal Pradesh, who graced the exhibition on 27th March. Addressing the audience, Dr. Rajneesh emphasized the importance of understanding the vast potential of the MSME sector and highlighted GI products as a high-growth segment for Indian MSMEs. He noted that India’s GI-certified products, with their unique identity, authenticity, and cultural value, have strong demand not only within the country but also in global markets. He further underlined that promoting GI products can play a significant role in enhancing the competitiveness of Indian MSMEs while preserving traditional knowledge and craftsmanship.
Speaking on similar lines, R.D. Nazeem highlighted that such initiatives are extremely powerful and called for collective support towards promoting India’s GI ecosystem. He emphasized that strengthening GI promotion can help ensure that the true benefits of economic growth reach grassroots communities, creating a more inclusive society where artisans, craftsmen, farmers, and agro-producers are directly benefitted. The GI Mahotsav is an initiative supported by the Ministry of MSME, organised by the India SME Forum, and curated by CIPRPF. The event aims to promote India’s GI ecosystem while creating direct market linkages for artisans, farmers, and small businesses. With three more days to go, the exhibition continues to offer a unique opportunity for people in Shimla and nearby regions to discover and shop authentic GI-certified products from across India. The exhibition is open daily from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

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