The All India Granites and Stone Association, popularly known as AIGSA, will be holding Stona 2004, the 6th International Granite Fair, from February 4 to 8, 2004 in Bangalore, India.

Spread over 1.2 million square feet of exhibit space, Stona 2004 has had tremendous response from exhibitors, and within one month of announcement, according to AIGSA. A total of 60% of the stalls have already been reserved, and it is likely that expansion will have to take place to accommodate the high number of stone and machinery exhibitors.

In addition to 500 exhibitors, special features of Stona 2004 include an "Artisans Hamlet," where rural stone artisans from all corners of India will participate and demonstrate their skills at the fair. Also, the event will feature a stone museum displaying all known ornamental building stones, such as granite, marble, slate, sandstone, limestone, etc. with detailed information on available resources and products. Among the exhibitors of Stona 2004 will be representatives from Italy, Spain, China and several other countries.

Stona 2004 is co-sponsored by United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) along with S.S.I., Mines and Commerce ministries of government of India. UNIDO has worked with the organizers to hose a "Buyer and Seller Meet" during the fair.

For more details, e-mail stona@stonaaigsa.com or visit them on the Internet at www.stonaaigsa.com.