STONA 2025: India’s Natural Stone Industry Gears Up for a Transformational Showcase
Industry Leaders Push for Policy Reforms Amidst Global Competition,FIGSI Advocates -One Nation, One Mineral , One Policy
BNH NETWORK
Bengaluru - India’s natural stone industry, a cornerstone of the nation’s economic and cultural identity, is set to make a powerful impact at STONA 2025, India’s premier international stone fair. The event, to be held at the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) on Tumkur Road, will bring together global industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to address key challenges and opportunities in the sector.
"STONA 2025 is a game-changer for India’s natural stone industry," said Mr. Krishna Prasad, President of the Federation of Indian Granite and Stone Industry (FIGSI). "This fair will not only showcase India’s vast stone resources but also drive vital conversations on policy reforms, sustainability, and technological advancements."
Key Challenges and Industry Demands
Despite India being one of the world’s largest producers of natural stones, the sector continues to face multiple hurdles. Raw material shortages, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and stiff competition from artificial alternatives have stifled growth. "To unlock the industry’s true potential, we need immediate reforms," emphasized Mr. Krishna Prasad. "A national policy with uniform regulations across states, along with GST rationalization, is imperative to create a fair and competitive environment."
FIGSI’s Policy Advocacy and Roadmap
FIGSI has been advocating for critical changes to improve the industry’s competitiveness:
- Extending quarry leases to 50 years with automatic renewals to ensure long-term investment security.
- Lowering GST rates on raw blocks and slabs to make India’s stone exports more globally competitive.
- Implementing ‘One Nation One Mineral One Policy’ for regulatory uniformity across states.
"A robust policy framework will enhance global competitiveness and increase employment opportunities in the sector," said Mr. Krishna Prasad.
Addressing Workforce and Technology Gaps
To tackle the shortage of skilled workers, FIGSI has launched two modern skill development centers in Hosur, Tamil Nadu, and Jaipur, Rajasthan. "By training a new generation of skilled professionals, we are ensuring a steady supply of expertise to support the industry's long-term growth," Mr. Prasad added.
STONA 2025 Event Highlights and Key Speakers
Providing a detailed overview, Mr. Manoj Kumar Singh, General Secretary of FIGSI, shared the official event schedule:
- February 12, 2025 (11:00 AM): Inaugural Function
- February 13, 2025 (10:30 AM - 1:30 PM): Geology Seminar
- February 15, 2025 (11:00 AM): Valedictory Function
Dignitaries Attending STONA 2025
Inaugural Function: Chief Guests: Shri S.S. Mallikarjun, Minister of Mines & Geology and Horticulture; Dr. Ramalingareddy, Minister for Transport and Muzrai, Govt. of Karnataka
Guest of Honour: Shri Krishan Kumar Vishnoi, Minister of State for Commerce and Industries, Govt. of Rajasthan
Geology Seminar (February 13, 2025): The seminar titled "Skilling and Use of Technology for Safe and Sustainable Mining" will feature experts discussing the latest industry trends and innovations.
Valedictory Function (February 15, 2025): Chief Guest: Shri D.K. Shiva Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka
STONA 2025 Awards and Recognitions
As part of its tradition, FIGSI will recognize excellence in the natural stone industry in the following categories:
Lifetime Achievement Award, Honoring Sculptor Sri Arun Yogiraj ,Industry Excellence Awards for: Model Granite and Marble Quarries, Export Excellence, Machinery Innovation, Advanced Tooling.
Honoring Excellence: Meritorious Student Award in Geology
In recognition of academic excellence, FIGSI will confer the Meritorious Student Award in the field of Geology to outstanding students who have contributed to the advancement of geological studies. The award will be presented by Shri D.K. Shiva Kumar, Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, during the valedictory function on February 15, 2025.
This initiative underscores the industry's commitment to fostering new talent and encouraging research in the field of geology, ensuring a skilled workforce for the future of the natural stone sector.
STONA 2025: Driving Growth and Innovation
With its extensive industry participation, high-level discussions on policy reforms, sustainability, and technology, and a dedicated Shilpgram section for rural artisans, STONA 2025 is poised to be a game-changer for India’s natural stone industry.
Additionally, STONA 2025 will feature ‘Shilpgram’, a unique initiative dedicated to rural artisans, providing 25 stalls to showcase their handcrafted stone artifacts. "This initiative will support traditional artisans and ensure their work reaches a global audience," said Mr. Madan Lal Jangid, Chairman of STONA 2025.
With a focus on policy advocacy, skill development, technological advancement, and global outreach, STONA 2025 is set to redefine India’s position in the global stone industry. The fair will not only highlight the richness of India’s natural stone resources but also provide a crucial platform to drive industry reforms and business collaborations.
