A 12-member folk troupe from Ismalia would perform at the inaugural ceremony of the fortnight-long Mela.

Choudhary said the Mela would showcase not only indigenous handicrafts and handlooms, but also goods from Egypt, Brazil, Thailand and the SAARC countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Addressing a media conference here today, Choudhary said Egypt is the partner country for the crafts Mela.

The Mela, which is being organised under the aegis of the Union Ministry of Tourism is being sponsored by the Union Ministry of Textiles.

Nearly 350 craftspersons, including national and state awardees, would exhibit their skills. Madhya Pradesh is the “Theme State” this year, she said. As many as 40 craftspersons from across the state would display their crafts, including folk paintings, metal-craft, bamboo, cane and jute products, iron-craft, terracotta, zari work, among others.

The Minister said the exporters’ meet would be organised through the Export Promotion Council of Development Commissioner,

Handicrafts. Cultural evenings would also be organised everyday at the open theatre.

A hasya kavi sammelan would also be held, along with dance, dramas, and other cultural programmes, she said.