Editor’s Note
This article highlights the Rajasthan government’s pledge to elevate the state’s historic stone industry to national prominence, emphasizing its heritage and economic potential.
Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma of Rajasthan stated on Thursday that the state government is committed to propelling Rajasthan’s stone industry to the forefront in the country, citing the sector’s rich heritage, global recognition, and strong growth potential.
The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural session of India Stonemart at the Jaipur Exhibition and Convention Centre (JECC).
He said that the industry is now fully prepared to scale new heights with government support. Urging entrepreneurs to work together, Sharma said that India Stonemart reflects the vision of a “New Rajasthan” and has emerged as a global platform showcasing the strength and potential of India’s natural stone industry. He congratulated C-DOS, RIICO, and Laghu Udyog Bharati for organizing the event.
Highlighting key features of the exhibition, the Chief Minister said that for the first time, India Stonemart has introduced a website in over 26 international languages, a dedicated mobile application, and a larger exhibition area, enhancing its global reach. Sharma stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is rapidly emerging as a global manufacturing hub. Initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat have instilled new confidence in industries.
He described it as a “golden opportunity” for the stone sector.
The Chief Minister said the Rajasthan government has ensured a policy-stable and investment-friendly environment for industries, including the stone sector. Measures like the single-window clearance system, robust industrial infrastructure, improved logistics, and simplified procedures have made it easier for entrepreneurs to set up businesses. He said that MoUs worth Rs 35 lakh crore were signed during the Rising Rajasthan Investment Summit, of which work on projects worth Rs 8 lakh crore has already begun.
Emphasizing Rajasthan’s mineral wealth, Sharma said the state has reserves of 85 types of minerals. The marble from Makrana and Kishangarh, as well as stones from Rajsamand, Jalore, Udaipur, Dungarpur, and Banswara, are globally recognized. He said Rajasthan’s centuries-old craftsmanship tradition and its world-renowned artisans are the backbone of this industry.
and assured that the government is committed to the safety, respect, skill development, modern equipment, better working conditions, and fair wages for workers.
Criticizing the previous government, Sharma said the lack of a clear industrial policy led to the migration of industries and the loss of employment opportunities.
Industry and Commerce Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore said that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, the state government is fully committed to promoting the stone industry. He said investment-friendly policies, single-window clearance, and process simplification are providing significant relief to entrepreneurs and will help Rajasthan’s stone sector secure a place on the global platform.
On this occasion, the Chief Minister honored Anil Chaudhary, Director of Shriram Mega Structure, and Mukesh Chandra Agrawal, Managing Director of Ever Shine Marbles, with Lifetime Achievement Awards for their outstanding contributions to the stone industry. Earlier, Sharma inaugurated India Stonemart 2026 by cutting the ribbon and touring various exhibition stalls. The event was attended by Education Minister Madan Dilawar, Chief Secretary V. Srinivas, All India Organization Secretary of Laghu Udyog Bharati Prakash Chand, Chairman of R.K. Marbles Ashok Patni, representatives from Iran and Turkey, and senior officials from Laghu Udyog Bharati, RIICO, and C-DOS.