Vadodara: The upcoming Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference (VGRC) for Central Gujarat, scheduled to be held in Vadodara in the last week of June, is set to boost industrial development while showcasing the region’s rich cultural and artisanal heritage on a global platform.
The conference is expected to prominently feature handicraft products from Central Gujarat that have received or are in the process of receiving Geographical Indication (GI) tags.
GI-Tagged Crafts to Take Center Stage at VGRC
The VGRC will highlight several traditional crafts that represent the identity, quality, and cultural heritage of Central Gujarat. A GI tag certifies the unique origin and authenticity of a product.
Key GI-tagged crafts include:
- Ahmedabad Sodagari Block Print
- Mata ni Pachedi textile art
- Pithora Painting
- Pethapur Printing Blocks
- Agates of Cambay (Khambhat)
- Sankheda Furniture
These crafts reflect centuries-old traditions preserved by artisan communities across the region.
Ahmedabad Sodagari Block Print: Reviving Centuries-Old Textile Art
The traditional hand-block textile art Sodagari Block Print, practiced in Ahmedabad’s Jamalpur area by the Chippa community, received its GI tag in 2024. This heritage craft has been preserved for generations and remains a symbol of Gujarat’s textile excellence.
Mata ni Pachedi and Pithora Painting Show Tribal Heritage
The sacred textile art Mata ni Pachedi, practiced in Ahmedabad and Kheda districts, received a GI tag in 2023. Created by the Devipujak community, it depicts deities and religious themes on cloth.
The tribal ritual art Pithora Painting, practiced by Rathwa, Bhil, and Bhilala communities in Chhota Udepur and Panchmahal, received GI recognition in 2021. Known for its vibrant colors and symbolic storytelling, it represents Gujarat’s tribal cultural identity.
Pethapur Blocks and Khambhat Agates Highlight Craftsmanship
The wooden printing blocks of Pethapur village in Gandhinagar, known for their intricate hand-carving techniques, were awarded a GI tag in 2018. The craft has a legacy of nearly 300 years.
The gemstone craft Agates of Cambay (Khambhat) in Anand district, recognized in 2008, traces its origins back to the Harappan civilization, making it one of India’s oldest known crafts.
Sankheda Furniture: A Symbol of Traditional Elegance
The handcrafted Sankheda Furniture from Vadodara district received its GI tag in 2008. Made from teak wood and decorated with traditional maroon and gold patterns, it is produced by the Kharadi-Suthar community and remains highly valued for its craftsmanship.
Emerging GI Applicants to Be Showcased
Along with GI-recognized crafts, products such as Dahod bead work and Khambhat kite crafts, currently under GI application, are also expected to be showcased at the conference.
VGRC to Connect Artisans with Global Markets
Aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 and the Vocal for Local initiative, the VGRC aims to promote traditional crafts and connect artisans with international markets.
The conference is expected to serve as a global platform for Central Gujarat’s handicrafts, enabling artisans and entrepreneurs to access new business and export opportunities.
Key Business and Investment Activities at VGRC
The VGRC will also feature a wide range of industrial and trade-focused activities, including:
- MoU exchanges
- Vendor development programs
- Reverse buyer-seller meets
- Sector-specific exhibitions
- MSME awards
- B2B and B2G networking sessions
- Industrial and tourism site visits
- Global diaspora partnerships
A Global Platform for Heritage and Industry
The upcoming VGRC in Vadodara is set to emerge as a major platform that combines industrial growth with cultural preservation. By showcasing GI-tagged crafts and promoting investment opportunities, the event aims to position Central Gujarat as a global hub for innovation, trade, and traditional craftsmanship.
