SAARC nations conspicuous in their absence at Shilpotsav

NOIDA: NCR's most eagerly-awaited handicrafts fair, the Noida Shilpotsav 2014, has begun on a bleak note. Contrary to what had been touted, the fair, being held at the Noida stadium in Sector 21A between October 11 and October 20, witnessed negligible participation from SAARC nations. Besides Sri Lanka, no other SAARC country has put up a stall here. Booths were still being set-up, two days after the fair commenced. Countries such as Thailand and China have made their presence felt, with the former by now participating regularly for the past two years.

"The process of getting SAARC countries to participate in such a fete is cumbersome. Though the process of acquiring permissions and approvals starts a year in advance, many clearances from the external affairs ministry, the UN (which co-ordinates with SAARC countries) and the countries themselves, take a lot of time," said Abhilash Sharma, the Crafts Mela Mahotsav Samiti secretary.

Most countries follow a strict code of conduct in seeking clearances, which includes detailed information on security arrangements, cleanliness and record of footfall during the fair, Sharma added.

The 10-day fair also includes cultural programmes by eminent artists. Poet Surendra Sharma performed at a Kavi Sammelan on Tuesday, while Gurgaon-based Jeevesh Ahluwalia, Abhishek Upamanyu and Hemant Sharma performed stand-up comedy on Wednesday. Popular Punjabi folk singer Jassi will take stage today, while playback singer Shilpa Rao will perform on Friday. Renowned thumri and folk singer Malini Awasthi is slated to perform on Sunday. Bollywood singer Javed Ali is scheduled for Monday, the last day.

Inaugurated in 2009, the festival has been receiving positive responses over the past few years. Organised by UP Tourism in association with the central tourism ministry and Noida authority, this year's festival has 'Tourism and Handicrafts' as its theme. It has over 400 handicraft and 200 state tourism stalls. "There is also a food court, which will serve cuisines from states across India," said Sharma.

Elaborate security arrangements have been made for the duration of the fair. These include installation of over 100 CCTV cameras and deployment of nearly 200 police personnel.

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