The 61st IHGF Delhi Fair – Spring 2026 was held from 14–18 February 2026 at the India Expo Centre & Mart, Greater Noida, and witnessed a vibrant start with strong domestic and international participation. Organised by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH), the fair attracted overseas buyers from over 109 countries, alongside buying houses, sourcing consultants and leading Indian retailers.
Shri Kapil Dev Aggarwal, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge), Skill Development and Vocational Education, Government of Uttar Pradesh, visited the fair on the opening day. He toured the exhibition halls, interacted with exhibitors and appreciated the craftsmanship and global market readiness of Indian handicrafts. He praised EPCH and the India Expo Centre & Mart for hosting an internationally acclaimed trade congregation and highlighted the positive impact of the upcoming Jewar International Airport on regional trade growth.
Spread across 17 halls and supported by 900 permanent showrooms, the fair featured over 3,000 exhibitors presenting products across 16 diverse categories, including home décor, textiles, furniture, fashion jewellery and lifestyle accessories. Buyers explored a wide range of handcrafted products reflecting India’s rich cultural heritage and evolving design sensibilities.
Dr. Neeraj Khanna, Chairman, EPCH, stated that the fair progressed with strong momentum as overseas buyers actively discovered new product lines while strengthening existing partnerships. Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Director General and Chief Mentor, EPCH, noted that sustainable and eco-conscious products such as cotton and jute-based items, recycled décor and natural-dye apparel received significant traction.
Knowledge seminars on Sustainability, Leveraging India’s Free Trade Agreements and Market Diversification witnessed strong engagement from exhibitors and exporters. Experts shared insights on tapping emerging markets, understanding global trade dynamics and integrating eco-friendly practices for long-term competitiveness.
A key highlight of the fair was the Exclusive Live Art Auction of India’s Master Crafts, facilitated by the Office of the Development Commissioner (Handicrafts), Ministry of Textiles. The auction showcased 12 exceptional creations by Shilp Guru and National Award-winning artisans, drawing enthusiastic participation from collectors and overseas buyers, with several pieces selling above reserve prices.
International buyers from the USA, UK, South Africa, France and Poland expressed strong confidence in India as a preferred sourcing destination, particularly for textiles, home décor, jewellery and festive products. With handicraft exports reaching Rs. 33,123 Crores in 2024–25, the fair once again reinforced India’s position as a global handicraft sourcing hub.
