The Xpo Originals GI Festival, organized under the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), was inaugurated at The Peterhoff Hotel in Shimla. The festival will continue until March 29, 2026, showcasing India’s rich heritage through Geographical Indication (GI)-certified products.
The festival features 100 GI-certified products from across the country displayed through 45 stalls, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore authentic traditional crafts, textiles, agricultural products, and regional specialties.
The inaugural event was attended by Dr. Rajneesh, IAS, Additional Secretary and Development Commissioner (MSME), Government of India, and R. D. Nazeem, Additional Chief Secretary (Industries), Government of Himachal Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rajneesh highlighted the vast potential of the MSME sector and described GI products as a rapidly growing segment for Indian MSMEs. He emphasized that GI-certified products hold strong demand in both domestic and global markets due to their authenticity, uniqueness, and cultural significance. Promoting GI products, he added, strengthens competitiveness while preserving traditional knowledge and craftsmanship.
Additional Chief Secretary R. D. Nazeem stated that such events play a vital role in promoting GI products and ensuring inclusive economic growth. He noted that encouraging GI products helps artisans, craftsmen, farmers, and agricultural producers directly benefit from economic opportunities.
On the opening day, the festival attracted a large number of locals and tourists who experienced India’s diverse cultural heritage. Visitors appreciated the vibrant atmosphere and wide product range, with many seen leaving with shopping bags — reflecting the event’s popularity.
The exhibition brings together artisans, producers, and sellers from different parts of India, showcasing rare GI-certified items from remote regions. Visitors can explore and purchase products such as Agates of Cambay, Baluchari sarees, Bhagalpur silk fabrics, Karvath Kati sarees, and specialty food items from Manipur including Chak Hao (black rice), Tamenglong oranges, Sirarakhong Hathei chillies, and Kachai lemons.
Additionally, a wide variety of handloom sarees, textiles, jewelry, handicrafts, home décor items, agricultural products, spices, syrups, footwear, fruits, and toys are available. All products displayed are GI-certified, ensuring authenticity, premium quality, and distinct cultural identity.
Visitors particularly appreciated the opportunity to interact directly with artisans while purchasing authentic products.
The exhibition is open daily from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Organized by the India SME Forum and curated by CIPRPF with support from the MSME Ministry, the festival aims to promote GI products while providing direct market access to artisans, farmers, and small enterprises.
The event was also attended by Additional Director Industries Harish Gajju, Joint Director Deepika Khatri, General Manager Industries Sanjay Kumar, and several other dignitaries.
