Nagaland showcased its cultural and economic potential at ‘Bharat Utsav 2025’ in Moscow, with handmade crafts and local products gaining global exposure. The state’s participation, led by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, highlighted sustainable entrepreneurship and international market readiness.
In a move to project its economic vibrancy and cultural richness on the global stage, the state of Nagaland made a remarkable appearance at the ‘Bharat Utsav 2025’, held at the iconic Manezhnaya Square in Moscow, Russia. The event, organized by the Indian Embassy in Moscow with support from the Moscow City Government, ran from July 5 to 13 and served as a platform to highlight India’s artistic traditions and entrepreneurial initiatives to an international audience.
Officials from Nagaland’s Department of Industries and Commerce, along with selected entrepreneurs and local producers, represented the state at the festival. According to a senior state official, the participation marked a pivotal moment in bringing Nagaland’s potential into both national and international focus. Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio graced the closing ceremony as the chief guest, further elevating the state’s presence at the prestigious international event.
The Chief Minister formally inaugurated the Nagaland stall at the venue, a symbolic act that reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting indigenous industries and supporting local entrepreneurs. “This cultural diplomacy initiative was not just a showcase, but a strategy to create global pathways for our local talent and products,” said the official.
The Nagaland stall, curated by the Department of Industries and Commerce, featured a handpicked selection of entrepreneurs and artisans, many of whom were engaging with an international audience for the first time. The display attracted substantial international footfall, offering these local producers a unique opportunity to understand global consumer trends, build networks, and explore export potential.
Products exhibited ranged from traditional crafts to innovative eco-friendly goods, all embodying Nagaland’s unique blend of heritage, artistry, and sustainability. Items included bamboo mugs, mini bamboo cups, trays, wooden plates, pen stands, bamboo earrings, wood necklace pendants, tribal masks, echo boxes, coconut spoons, fridge magnets, extension cords, paper pencils, bamboo pens, platters, and salt containers. These pieces reflected a strong connection to nature and the traditional lifestyles of the region.
In addition, the stall featured exquisite textiles such as cushion covers, silk shawls, and table runners, as well as organic products like Nagaland coffee and wild honey. Small purses and other handcrafted accessories also drew admiration from visitors, many of whom purchased these items, leading to a complete sell-out of the products before the end of the event.
Officials noted that this level of interest and commercial success underscores the high potential of Nagaland’s artisan sector on the global market. “This international exposure is not merely symbolic. It is a significant economic milestone for the Department of Industries and Commerce as we work towards sustainable livelihood generation and the empowerment of indigenous producers,” an official statement read.
The success of Nagaland’s participation is being seen as a major step in building a scalable entrepreneurial ecosystem within the state. By facilitating direct interaction with global consumers and markets, the Department is laying the groundwork for export-readiness, product innovation, and sustainable business growth.
The event also strengthened India-Russia cultural ties, with Nagaland’s vibrant contribution serving as a bridge between regional identity and international diplomacy. “This is just the beginning,” the Department emphasized. “We are committed to leveraging this momentum to foster more global partnerships, support export-oriented growth, and invest in the immense talent and resilience of our local entrepreneurs.”
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As Nagaland steps into the international spotlight, initiatives like this not only promote local heritage but also serve as catalysts for long-term economic development and global recognition of the region’s rich cultural identity.
