By Ambuj Upadhyay Edited by: Prateek Gupta Updated: Sat, 06 Dec 2025 01:42 (IST) During Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India, Prime Minister Modi gifted him a handmade chess set made in Agra. As a result, the copy of Agra … read more Putin India Visit: PM Narendra Modi gives gift to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Ambuj Upadhyay, Agra. Putin visits India: Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India was also special for Agra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted him a handmade chess set in Agra. With this, Agra’s talent has once again been showcased on the world stage. Hence, marble products will get encouragement. The mosaics (inlay work) dating back to the Mughal period attracted people, while the city’s marble and soapstone products also strengthened their hold in more than 35 countries and local markets. Marble products have crossed the borders of the country and made a strong place in the showcases of kitchen, bathroom, dining tables and abroad. The business continued to increase and the export itself reached Rs 1200 crore, while the domestic market is Rs 300 crore. Remove ads Only read news Marble chessboard. The recession in Europe and American tariffs affected more than half of exports, but the use of the Russian president’s gift filled local entrepreneurs with special energy. Exporter Rajat Asthana says that the city’s marble product, inlay, has a special identity and is in high demand abroad as well. When used to give to a special guest, it encourages both local artisans and businesses. Exporter Anurag Mittal says even though the export of marble products is half affected due to 50 percent tariff by America, but the gift to the President of Russia has given it better publicity on the world stage. Our effort is to bring the affected exports back to a strong position by supporting new countries. This is the figure: Two thousand small and big units of handicrafts have 50 to 75 thousand people, dependents, exports are done to more than 35 countries, exports are worth Rs 1200 crores, local business is worth Rs 300 crores. Major countries are America, Germany, Netherlands, Britain, France, Australia, Canada, Japan, Italy, UAE, Denmark, Switzerland, Israel, Austria and other countries. Also Read- Putin India Visit: When Putin came to Agra with his wife 25 years ago, he spent hours looking at the Taj Mahal; Was impressed by this craftsmanship