The 49th edition of the Indian Handicrafts & Gifts (IHGF) Delhi Fair Spring-2020 has been cancelled by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) due to concerns over the present status of COVID-19 in India and globally. This development has been making headlines recently, raising concerns among the handicrafts exporters and importers.
Introduction to The Indian Handicrafts & Gifts Fair
The IHGF Delhi Fair is not just a trade event, but also secured a position as Asia’s largest gifts & handicrafts trade fair. Serving as a platform for showcasing the richness and diversity of handicrafts, this event provides an excellent opportunity for importers and exporters around the world to explore and exchange cultural artistry. The decision to cancel such a grand event indeed comes with significant economic implications, given the current public health crisis brought about by COVID-19.
About The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts
To fully understand the ramifications of the cancellation, we must first look into the organization behind this event – the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts. Established under the Companies Act in the year 1986-87, EPCH came into existence as a non-profit organization. Its primary objective is to promote, support, protect, maintain, and increase the export of handicrafts from India.
This apex body of handicrafts exporters aims towards projecting India’s image abroad as a reliable supplier of high-quality handicrafts. Not only does it work towards promoting India’s rich heritage in handicrafts, but it also ensures that the country’s artisans receive due recognition and the deserved monetary benefits on an international scale.
Infrastructure, Marketing, and Information Facilities of EPCH
EPCH has built necessary infrastructure to facilitate the efficient promotion of India’s handicraft exports. This infrastructure is integral in maintaining the rhythm and flow of transactions between handicraft exporters and importers.
Moreover, EPCH has also developed considerable marketing and information facilities that are vital resources for its member exporters and importers. These facilities provide essential updates on market trends, industry news, and other relevant information that aids in optimal decision-making processes related to manufacturing, exporting, and importing of handicrafts.
Impact of COVID-19 on Handicraft Exports
The cancellation of the 49th edition of IHGF Delhi Fair will undoubtedly have considerable repercussions on the handicraft exports industry in India. Considering that this event serves as a significant platform for artisans to showcase their work and for exporters to secure orders from global buyers, its cancellation will impact the livelihoods of many artisans and businesses relying on this event for their yearly income.
In conclusion, while safety and health are of utmost importance during these testing times, it is equally crucial to acknowledge and address the economic ramifications and challenges that COVID-19 has posed towards the handicrafts sector in India.
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