The State-Level Workshop on “Leveraging FTAs – Outreach Programme” was held on 13 October 2026 in Bhubaneswar, organised by the MSME Department, Government of Odisha, in association with the DGFT. The workshop focused on exploring export opportunities under India’s Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), identifying Odisha’s export potential and addressing key challenges faced by exporters.
The programme was attended by Shri Sampad Chandra Swain, Hon’ble Minister of State for Industries, Skill Development and Technical Education; Smt. Rashmita Panda, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, MSME Department; Shri Hemant Sharma, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries Department; Shri Agrim Kaushal, Senior Economic Advisor & Joint Secretary, Department of Commerce, Government of India; Shri Gokulananda Mallik, Minister of State for MSME; and Smt. Aboli Sunil Naravane, IAS, Director of Industries, Government of Odisha.
As part of the workshop, GJEPC supported a dedicated sector-specific interactive session on promoting GI-tagged Cuttack Silver Filigree (Tarkashi) jewellery. The discussions focused on export opportunities, market access and the support required from the State Government to strengthen the craft and enable artisans and manufacturers to expand their market reach.
One of the GI Authorised jewellery manufacturers thanked GJEPC for facilitating participation in the GI-Tagged Jewellery Crafts Pavilion at IIJS Bharat Tritiya 2026, which helped generate valuable export orders that were subsequently executed, demonstrating the effectiveness of dedicated platforms in connecting traditional artisans with international buyers.
Participants raised queries on various aspects of export promotion and market development, which were addressed during the interactive session to their satisfaction. Smt. Aboli Sunil Naravane, IAS, Director of Industries, Government of Odisha, appreciated and thanked GJEPC for extending support to the programme at short notice.
GJEPC remains committed to promoting India’s traditional jewellery crafts, strengthening MSMEs and artisans, and creating global market opportunities for GI-tagged products.