Ranchi: From Afghan dry fruits and Iranian products to automobiles, real estate, food and amusement rides, Morabadi Maidan turned into a sprawling marketplace as the seven-day Expo Utsav 2026 kicked off on Thursday. The 29th edition of JCI Ranchi’s annual expo has around 400 stalls, with participants from across India and overseas, including Bangladesh, Iran and Afghanistan.Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, inaugurating the expo, said, “Jharkhand’s local products can gain a new identity in the country and abroad through quality, better design, modern technology and effective branding,” highlighting the distinct identity of tasar silk.He also stressed the role of entrepreneurship in employment and economic growth, urging young entrepreneurs to use e-commerce and social media to expand their businesses. “Digital technology, e-commerce and social media have rapidly changed the way business is done. Even small enterprises can reach a wider market through technology,” Gangwar said.The expo has stalls spanning consumer products, startups, automobiles, dry fruits, lifestyle products and services. A replica of London Bridge has been installed as one of the major attractions, while a food court and amusement park have been set up for visitors.“This year, we have tried to make Expo Utsav more than just a shopping exhibition. One of the new attractions is ‘Expo Tank’, inspired by Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs and startups will get an opportunity to present their business ideas and explore possibilities of investment and mentorship,” said Prashant Patodia, chief coordinator of the expo.“There is much more variety this time. Apart from regular shopping, we can explore products from different countries, automobiles, food and other lifestyle stalls. The international participation makes the expo different from a routine local exhibition,” said Madhvi Iyer, a visitor.
7-day expo utsav kicks off at Morabadi
