Union Minister Piyush Goyal called for a marriage of technology and craft as he inaugurated the 17th edition of the Indian Fashion Jewellery & Accessories Show on June 26. The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts’ trade show runs until June 28. 

In his address, Minister for Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, and Textiles Goyal commended the exports sector for generating employment opportunities for Indians and for developing sustainable textiles, the EPCH announced in a press release. Goyal highlighted the need to utilise modern technology in tandem with maintaining traditional crafts practices.  
 
“The world is looking at India, therefore we don’t have the luxury of time and must work at a rapid pace to create opportunities and vistas for the future generations, young entrepreneurs, start-ups and upcoming business entities in the exports sector,” said Goyal in his address, the EPCH reported in a press release. 

Goyal stated that sustainable textiles are vital for creating a circular economy and that producing products which stand out in the global market is equally important for boosting exports. Goyal also noted that the government will continue to develop and pursue bilateral trade agreements with other countries to help boost exports and assured the government’s support for the textile and handicrafts industries. 
 
IFJAS is running concurrently with the 69th edition of the India International Garment Fair at the India Expo Centre and Mart in Greater Noida. The trade shows are designed to bring together international buyers and Indian manufacturers.