14-day trade fair likely to witness about 1.5 million visitors

NEW DELHI: The annual India International Trade Fair (IITF) kicked-off here today with over 6,000 exhibitors, both domestic and foreign, showcasing a wide variety of products.

About 1.5 million visitors are expected to throng Pragati Maidan during the 14-day long fair, India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) Chairperson and Managing Director Rita Menon told reporters.

Last year, the fair witnessed about 14 lakh footfalls, she said. Inaugurated by President Pranab Mukherjee, the fair will be thrown open to general public from November 19 till November 27.

"The IITF has acted as a vehicle to showcase the economy and social development over the last 3 decades and gaining its popularity and moving from strength-to-strength," Mukherjee said on the occasion.

According to the organisers, the first five days are reserved for business visitors and the entry timings would be between 9.30 am and 7.30 pm on all days.

This year, entry tickets rates have been raised by Rs 10 to Rs 50 for adults and Rs 30 for children on weekdays. On weekends, they have been priced at Rs 80 for adults and Rs 50 for children.

Belarus Prime Minister Mikhail V Myasnikovich, who was the guest of honour at the 32nd edition of the IITF, said his country was showcasing its products and expertise, particularly, in the field of heavy industry.

This year Belarus has been given the 'partner country' status and South Africa the 'focus country' rank at the fair.

The theme of this year's IITF is "Skilling India", projecting the performance of the Central government and state ministries, departments and private sector in the related fields.