EPCH Announces New Leadership: Neeraj Khanna Appointed Chairman, Sagar Mehta as Vice-Chairman

The Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts (EPCH) has proclaimed a change in its top management. Neeraj Khanna, previously serving as Vice-Chairman, has been raised to the post of Chairman, while Sagar Mehta has been appointed as the new Vice-Chairman. 

The appointments were formalized during the 199th meeting of the Committee of Administration (COA), as informed by R.K. Verma, Executive Director, EPCH.

Khanna thrives Dileep Baid, who completed his tenancy as Chairman. The COA extended a warm welcome and congratulations to both Khanna and Mehta on their new parts.

Reflecting on his occupancy, outgoing Chairman Dileep Baid stated, “As I conclude my tenure, I feel honored to look back at the milestones we've achieved. From enhancing exports to launching key initiatives, it has been a transformative journey. I promise the new leadership of my full support and look forward to witnessing continued growth under their guidance.”

The Committee articulated deep appreciation for Baid’s impactful two-year leadership, during which several edges ranging from product development and packaging innovation to sustainable practices and compliance with global standards were implemented. Notably, the “Teen Guna Tees Tak” initiative, aiming to triple handicrafts exports by 2030, was a seal of his tenure.

About the New Leadership

Neeraj Khanna, a second-generation entrepreneur and dynamic exporter, joined Nodi Exports in 1996. Under his leadership, the company has grown over 800%, becoming a notable name in global handicraft exports. Recognized for his innovative approach and business acumen, Khanna has been honored with several accolades, including the Atal Gaurav Award 2024 for Export Excellence. He has also served on the Advisory Committee of Uttar Pradesh Industrial Development, appointed by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.

Beyond business, Khanna is actively involved in philanthropy through organizations such as the Diwa Sewa Prem Mission, Moradabad Charitable Trust & Health Research Centre, and Asian Vivekananda Super Specialty Hospital, offering critical health services to disadvantaged groups.

Sagar Mehta, the new Vice-Chairman, heads the QTL Group—an established name in the export of fashion jewelry, accessories, and bags. Founded in 2005 and based in New Delhi, the QTL Group exports to key international markets such as Spain, Chile, and Greece. Under his leadership, the company has achieved remarkable growth and national recognition for its export performance.

Expressing gratitude, Mehta said, “I am thankful to the Committee for entrusting me with this role. I look forward to working closely with the industry and stakeholders to strengthen Indian handicrafts exports.”

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Upon taking charge, Khanna stated, “I am deeply grateful to the Committee and the handicraft exporter community for their trust. We will last to build on the strong foundation laid by my predecessor and work with renewed energy to endorse Indian handicrafts globally. The mission to triple exports by 2030 will remain our guiding vision.”

Handicrafts Export Outlook

EPCH, the apex body for endorsing Indian handicrafts globally, reported estimated provisional exports of Rs. 32,971.50 crore (USD 3,898.46 million) for the financial year 2024–25. The Council continues its mission to showcase the "magic of the gifted hands" of India’s artisans across varied product sections including home décor, lifestyle, textiles, furn. EPCH Announces New Leadership: Neeraj Khanna Appointed Chairman, Sagar Mehta as Vice-Chairman.