Union finance minister Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the annual India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan here on Monday. He said that Indian exports have performed well this year, but expressed the fear that they may be hit if the Eurozone crisis prolongs.
The IITF will be thrown open to general public from November 19 till its conclusion on November 27. The first five days are reserved for business visitors.
The India International Trade Promotion (ITPO) officials are projecting a total footfall of 1.4 million during the event.
The police has made elaborate security arrangements at the venue expecting one lakh visitors each day. Visitors have been advised to use the Delhi Metro to reach the venue. Various traffic restrictions have been put in place for the two-week event. There will be no entry after 4 pm on weekends and after 6 pm on weekdays.
Over 6,000 exhibitors from India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Thailand, China are showcasing their products. Diverse handicrafts from all across the country will add to the theme of this year’s fair “Indian Handicrafts — the magic of the gifted hands”.
The Delhi pavilion highlights the rich handicrafts and the evolution of the city over the time.
The façade and entrance has been created to represent Shahjahanabad. One can feel the magic as craftsmen showcase their skills live.
An exclusive exhibition of rare photographs of the transfer of power from the British to India has been mounted by the department of information.