BENGALURU, Sept. 21:
The Karnataka government will organise ‘Karnataka Parva 2026’ from September 26 to 30 with the objective of promoting the craftsmanship, traditional skills, entrepreneurship and market access of artisans belonging to minority communities, Minister for Minority Welfare U.T. Khader announced on Sunday.
Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Mr. Khader said the five-day event would be held at Tripuravahini, Palace Grounds, bringing together artisans from different parts of Karnataka on a common platform to exhibit and market their traditional handicrafts, handmade products and other skill-based creations.
He said the initiative aims to provide artisans with wider market exposure, direct interaction with buyers and opportunities to expand their businesses. A total of 180 exhibition stalls will be set up, enabling participants to showcase and sell their products while exploring new commercial prospects.
The event will also feature capacity-building sessions on e-commerce, digital marketing, modern business practices, enterprise networking and market expansion. Cultural programmes highlighting the State’s rich artistic traditions will be organised alongside the exhibition, and members of the public have been urged to participate and encourage local artisans.
Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is scheduled to inaugurate the event at 11 a.m. on September 26. Ministers Rizwan Arshad, Zameer Ahmed Khan and K.J. George, among others, are expected to attend the inaugural function.
Action against counterfeit drug network
Responding to questions on the ongoing investigation into the counterfeit drug racket, Mr. Khader said the Special Investigation Team (SIT) had reached a crucial stage in its probe. He asserted that stringent action would be taken against all those found responsible, irrespective of their influence, once the investigation report is submitted.
He said the licences of 12 suspected pharmacies had been cancelled after the establishments were shut down. The Minister also stated that the sale and supply of products manufactured by multinational pharmaceutical company Pfizer had been suspended in Karnataka after the company allegedly failed to cooperate with the investigation.
Minority Welfare Department Secretary Manoj Jain, Director Yasmin Valikar, Joint Director Pundalik Anaval, and Managing Director Sheikh Latif were present at the press conference.
