Uttar Pradesh’s traditional carpet-producing belt, encompassing Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi, is strengthening its position as a major global export hub for handmade carpets, textiles and handicrafts. Improved infrastructure, government support and better international market access are helping the region expand its export potential.
The cluster generated approximately ₹4,960 crore in carpet exports during FY2024–25, accounting for nearly 87.5% of Uttar Pradesh’s total carpet exports. Bhadohi alone contributed around ₹4,022 crore, representing approximately 71% of the state’s carpet exports.
Bhadohi, widely known as India’s carpet city, is a major centre for handmade carpet production. The district has around 2,500 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), with an annual turnover of approximately ₹10,000 crore. The industry provides direct employment to more than five lakh people, including weavers, artisans and other workers. Nearly 90% of the carpets manufactured in the district are exported to international markets such as the United States, Germany, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom.
Government initiatives, particularly the One District One Product (ODOP) programme, have helped promote regional craftsmanship, improve market visibility and connect artisans with wider commercial opportunities. The Geographical Indication (GI) recognition of Bhadohi handmade carpets further strengthens the identity of the region’s traditional products.
Infrastructure development is also supporting the industry. The Carpet Expo Mart in Bhadohi provides a dedicated platform for manufacturers and exporters to engage with overseas buyers. International trade fairs, improved road connectivity, access to Varanasi airport and inland waterways are helping strengthen the region’s logistics and export ecosystem.
The proposed development of a larger silk and textile cluster covering Bhadohi, Mirzapur and Varanasi is expected to bring traditional skills, modern technology, design capabilities and global marketing opportunities closer together.
For exporters, the region’s expanding infrastructure and established manufacturing base offer opportunities to reach international customers more efficiently. At the same time, investment in technology, product innovation and artisan skills will remain important for maintaining competitiveness in global markets.
The emergence of the Bhadohi-Mirzapur-Varanasi belt as an integrated export hub highlights the growing role of traditional manufacturing clusters in Uttar Pradesh’s export economy, while creating opportunities for rural employment and the preservation of India’s handmade carpet heritage.