Cottage and small-scale industries expo inaugurated in Dharwad

Caption: District minister Santosh Lad and deputy commissioner Snehal R take a look at the handicrafts on display at the exhibition organised at Karnatak College ground in Dharwad on Tuesday. (TOI)Dharwad: A district-level exhibition and sales fair of products made by artisans and cottage industries was inaugurated on Tuesday at the Karnataka College grounds in Dharwad by district minister Santosh Lad. The five-day exhibition, organised by the rural and small industries division of the zilla panchayat under the 2025–26 Product Exhibition Scheme, will be held from Feb 24 to 28. After inaugurating the event, the minister interacted with cottage industry entrepreneurs and members of self-help groups participating in the exhibition. He enquired in detail about their production processes, sources of raw materials, daily output, and the current status of their businesses. A total of 32 stalls have been set up at the exhibition, showcasing and selling a variety of products including industrial goods, household items, food products, and handicrafts. The exhibition received a positive response from the public, with many visitors purchasing products on the spot. The minister also personally bought a few items from stalls, encouraging local artisans and entrepreneurs. He said the exhibition provides a valuable platform for small-scale entrepreneurs to showcase their products and enhance their income.