More than Rs 5.31 lakh worth of tribal handicrafts, herbal products, and traditional goods were sold at the ‘Vibrant Gujarat Regional Exhibition-2026’ in Surat over five days. The earnings from the exhibition went directly to tribal artisans without any deductions or operational costs. The event featured 25 stalls showcasing tribal heritage and traditional products from Gujarat.
The exhibition, held from May 1 to 5 alongside the ‘Vibrant Gujarat Regional Conference’ on the occasion of ‘Gujarat Foundation Day’, aimed to highlight the social, economic, and cultural diversity of tribal communities. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel inaugurated the tribal heritage section of the exhibition. The stalls exhibited bamboo handicrafts, wooden artifacts, traditional jewelry, handloom garments, forest-based herbal products, and natural food items crafted by artisans from various tribal districts.
The Gujarat Tribal Development Department, under the leadership of Tribal Development Minister Naresh Patel, organized the stalls. The event focused on preserving and promoting tribal art, craftsmanship, lifestyle, and cultural traditions. It also encouraged artisans to explore entrepreneurship opportunities. A total of 38 tribal artisans participated in the exhibition, with the state government covering their travel, accommodation, and food expenses.
Senior leaders and delegates, including Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil, Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi, and State Minister Jayram Gamit, visited the tribal exhibition area during the event. Delegates from different countries interacted with artisans and viewed the displays. The exhibition was part of the broader ‘Vibrant Gujarat’ initiative, which this year emphasized cultural heritage and community-based economic development alongside industrial growth.
