India Stonemart 2026 concludes with call for ecological balance with safe mining

February 8, 2026e-Paper

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February 8, 2026e-Paper

Published - February 09, 2026 03:06 am IST - JAIPUR

Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade observing a stone statue at India Stonemart-2026 in Jaipur on February 8, 2026. | Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

The four-day India Stonemart-2026 concluded in Jaipur on Sunday (February 8, 2026) with a call to maintain ecological balance with safe mining practices in the stone industry and its related processing activities. The participants laid emphasis on environment protection in the stone sector and preservation of natural resources.

The domains of digital cutting, robotic finishing, ultra-thin slabs, and sustainable stone architecture were highlighted as important fields in the stone industry with an “immense future potential”. Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagade addressed the event’s valedictory ceremony at Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre.

The 13th edition of Stonemart witnessed the participation of a large number of stone exhibitors, entrepreneurs, exporters, and representatives of start-ups from India and abroad. The organising body, the Centre for Development of Stones, announced that the next edition would be held in 2028.

Mr. Bagade said Rajasthan was a leader in stone mining as well as its diversity and exports. “We need to make rigorous efforts to explore entrepreneurial and industrial potential associated with stone mining. The craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal of stones have helped establish a distinct identity of this sector,” he said.

The Governor said ensuring social security in mining was not just a policy issue but the moral responsibility of a mature industry. Rajasthan, which accounted for 70% of the country’s stone mining and processing, was among the largest producers of marble, granite and sandstone, he said.

Mr. Bagade presented awards to 36 of the best stalls, craft artists, and institutions across various categories on the occasion. Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani and Minister of State for Industries and Commerce K.K. Vishnoi were among those who attended the valedictory ceremony.

Mr. Devnani called upon the entrepreneurs in the stone industry to embrace innovation, technology and environmental sustainability. Other speakers said the Stonemart had effectively showcased the State’s global potential and strengthened collaboration among industry, government and entrepreneurs.

Published - February 09, 2026 03:06 am IST

Jaipur / Rajasthan

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