Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented a curated collection of traditional Indian products and handcrafted items to world leaders during the 52nd G7 Summit in Evian, France, highlighting the country’s cultural heritage, sustainable agricultural practices and centuries-old artisanal traditions.

The gifts included Nagauri Ashwagandha from Rajasthan, Ramban Honey from Jammu and Kashmir, Lakadong Turmeric from Meghalaya and a Banarasi silk stole from Varanasi. Several of the products have Geographical Indication (GI) tags and represent the diversity of India’s regional traditions and livelihoods.

Traditional Produce Reflects India’s Agricultural Heritage

Among the items presented was Ramban Honey, produced in the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, an area known for its rich Himalayan flora and wildflowers.

Produced using traditional and environmentally sensitive methods, the honey is valued in Ayurveda for its natural antioxidants, enzymes and bioactive compounds. It also reflects the region’s long-standing beekeeping traditions and biodiversity.

Prime Minister Modi also gifted Lakadong Turmeric, a premium variety cultivated in Meghalaya’s Jaintia Hills and recognised with a GI tag.

Known for its high curcumin content, the turmeric is widely used in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine and is associated with sustainable farming practices followed by local communities.

Nagauri Ashwagandha, another GI-tagged product included in the collection, is grown primarily in Rajasthan’s Nagaur district.

Rich in withanolides, the herb occupies an important place in Ayurveda, where it is regarded as a Rasayana that supports vitality, immunity and overall well-being. It has also attracted scientific interest for its adaptogenic properties.

Banarasi Silk Showcases Centuries-Old Craftsmanship

The Prime Minister also presented Banarasi silk stoles, handwoven in Varanasi using fine silk and intricate zari work.

Recognised with a GI tag, Banarasi silk is considered one of India’s most distinguished textile traditions and supports the livelihoods of generations of weaving families.

The fabric’s elaborate motifs and weaving techniques reflect a heritage that has been preserved over centuries and continues to symbolise India’s artistic legacy.

World Leaders Gather at G7 Summit

Leaders attending the summit alongside Modi included European Council President Antonio Costa, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, US President Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Kenyan President William Ruto and South Korean President Lee Jae-Myung.

Following the conclusion of the summit, Modi described his engagements in Evian as productive and said India had articulated its views on governance and policy-making while underlining the importance of cooperation with the Global South to promote shared prosperity.

PM Modi Advocates Human-Centric AI

During the summit, the Prime Minister participated in discussions on artificial intelligence and highlighted India’s commitment to ethical and human-centric AI development.

He also advocated an inclusive approach to emerging technologies to ensure that developing countries benefit from advances in artificial intelligence.

The presentation of traditional Indian gifts at the summit formed part of a broader effort to showcase the country’s cultural wealth, indigenous products and sustainable practices on the global stage.

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