Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) [India], Oct 21 (ANI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday inaugurated the 36th Indian Carpets Expo here.

Addressing a gathering via a video conference, Prime Minister Modi said that Varanasi, Bhadohi and Mirzapur--cities in Uttar Pradesh-- were important centres of the carpet industry while also underlining the efforts being made to encourage handicrafts and small and medium industries.

The Prime Minister said that India has a long tradition of handicrafts, and Varanasi has played a key role in this regard. He said that handicrafts have been a source of inspiration in the freedom struggle and for self-reliance, mentioning Mahatma Gandhi, Satyagraha, and the Charkha in this context.

The Prime Minister said that India is today the biggest producer of carpets, and has about 35 per cent of the global market share. He also spoke of the impressive export performance of this sector. Prime Minister Modi said the rising middle class and the support provided to the carpet industry are two key factors behind the growth in this sector.

He appreciated the skills of the carpet makers, which he believes, have made the "Made in India carpet" a big brand. The Prime Minister also spoke of the logistic support being provided to carpet exporters, and the creation of world-class laboratories to ensure quality. Prime Minister Modi also spoke of other facilitation measures, including modern looms and credit facilities being made available to the sector.

The Prime Minister concluded by saying that the Union Government is committed to ensuring that the skill and hard work of the carpet makers, becomes one of the strengths of the nation. (ANI)

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