Frankfurt, Germany, Jan 13: In a landmark moment for India’s textile industry, Shuchita Kishore, IFS, Consulate General of India, Frankfurt, inaugurated the prestigious Indian Pavilion at Heimtextil 2026, the world’s largest trade fair for home and contract textiles, alongside Akhilesh Kumar, DDG; Puresh Gurunani, Director, Ministry of Textiles; and Kishan Singh Ghughtyal, Joint Director, National Jute Board.
The event, held from January 13–16 at Messe Frankfurt, draws over 2,600 exhibitors from 60+ countries, showcasing innovations in bed, bath, table linens, upholstery, yarns, and sustainable interior designs under the theme “Lead the Change,” with a focus on sustainability, textile circularity, and AI-driven design.
The inauguration, graced by Mr. Mukesh Kumar Gombar, Chairman, Carpet Export Promotion Council (CEPC); Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad, CEPC; Bodh Raj Malhotra, COA, CEPC; and Dr. Smita Nagarkoti, Officiating Executive Director-cum-Secretary, CEPC, underscores India’s leadership in global textile innovation.
Heimtextil 2026 features special collaborations, including with renowned designer Patricia Urquiola, making it an unparalleled platform for networking, bulk orders, and trendsetting.
Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad, CEPC, a prominent voice for Kashmiri handicrafts, seized the occasion to appeal to the Government of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). “These international expos are vital for reviving our rich cultural heritage, where foreign buyers once placed bulk orders for Kashmiri handmade carpets,” said Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad.
“Today, events like Heimtextil are the lifeline for keeping this ancient art alive. I urge the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of J&K to seize this opportunity: extend support for handmade exporters from Kashmir to participate, visit, and study global markets. This focused push will revive bulk exports, preserve our old culture, and position Kashmiri carpets at the forefront of international demand.”
With India’s handmade carpets gaining renewed global attention, Sheikh Ashiq Ahmad emphasized that now is the best time for J&K to prioritize international events, enabling exporters to compete in sustainability-driven markets and secure long-term revival.
CEPC promotes the export of Indian handmade carpets, fostering growth for artisans and exporters while preserving cultural legacies.
