Jaipur.
Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Bhajanlal Sharma formally inaugurated India Stonemart 2026 at a grand ceremony held at the Mugdha Convention Hall, Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC), Sitapura. With this inauguration, the four-day international stone industry event, scheduled from February 5 to February 8, officially began, positioning Rajasthan once again at the global centre of the natural stone industry.
India Stonemart: A Confluence of Culture, Craft and Industry
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said that India Stonemart is not merely a commercial exhibition but a unique confluence of India’s rich cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship and industrial strength. He welcomed representatives of the stone industry, entrepreneurs, traders, workers and international participants, and appreciated their contribution to strengthening Rajasthan’s economy.
The Chief Minister stated that the world today views India as a major investment destination, and natural stones such as marble and sandstone are emerging as strong sectors for global investment. He highlighted that Rajasthan is endowed with 85 varieties of minerals, and almost every district of the state has its own distinctive stone identity.
He noted that Rajasthan stone has been used in iconic national structures such as the Rashtrapati Bhavan, Parliament House and the Supreme Court of India, reflecting its durability and aesthetic value. One of the key strengths of Rajasthan stone, he said, is its low maintenance requirement once properly installed, making it highly preferred across the world.
Focus on MSMEs, Labour Welfare and Skill Development
Chief Minister Sharma emphasised the vision of “One District–One Product” and “One District–One Stone”, assuring special encouragement to MSMEs and small and medium enterprises. He underlined the state government’s commitment towards labour welfare, fair wages, workplace safety and skill enhancement, stating that human capital is the backbone of industrial growth.
Calling upon industry stakeholders to work as a team, adopt modern technologies and take Rajasthan’s stone to global markets, the Chief Minister assured that the state government stands shoulder to shoulder with entrepreneurs in promoting industrial development.
Industries Minister Rathore: Rajasthan’s Stones Speak Their Own History
Industries Minister Col. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore welcomed guests from India and abroad and thanked the Chief Minister, industry leaders, media representatives and all partners associated with the event. He said that Rajasthan does not need to write its history, as its stones speak for themselves.
He noted that India Stonemart, which began in 2007, has now reached its 13th edition and has evolved into a truly global platform. This year, 66 international companies from countries including Iran, Italy, Turkey and China are participating, reflecting the growing international stature of the event.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the stone sector, the minister said that Rajasthan offers a business-friendly environment where files move faster than entrepreneurs, ensuring ease of doing business.
RUDRA’s Shilpgram Emerges as a Major Attraction
As part of India Stonemart 2026, Shilpgram organised by the Rural Non-Farm Development Agency (RUDRA) emerged as a key attraction. Artisans and craftsmen from different districts of Rajasthan showcased traditional arts, handicrafts and construction techniques. The Chief Minister and other dignitaries visited Shilpgram and appreciated the initiative, calling it an important step towards rural livelihoods, self-employment and skill development.
Platform for B2B Meetings and Global Networking
India Stonemart 2026 is hosting B2B meetings, industry dialogues, export-investment discussions and networking sessions, attracting buyers, architects, infrastructure developers and stone industry experts from across the globe. The exhibition is being held over the largest-ever area, featuring stalls related to natural stone, machinery, advanced technologies, innovative designs and value-added products.
Successful Opening Day, More Key Sessions Ahead
The first day of India Stonemart 2026 witnessed an enthusiastic response with a large turnout of visitors and business delegates. Several important technical sessions, B2B meetings, industry interactions and export-focused programmes are scheduled over the coming days.
At the conclusion of the inaugural ceremony, Convener Shri Natwarlal Ajmera presented the vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister, ministers, dignitaries, participants, media representatives and all stakeholders involved in making India Stonemart 2026 a success.