Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan Inaugurates SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025

Noida: Union Minister for Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan inaugurated the SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025 at Noida Haat, Uttar Pradesh, via video conferencing today. The event was attended by Union Ministers of State for Rural Development, Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani and Kamlesh Paswan, who highlighted the Mela’s crucial role in empowering rural women entrepreneurs and promoting traditional crafts.

Addressing the ‘Lakhpati Didis’—the self-help group (SHG) women entrepreneurs—Chouhan emphasized the transformative impact of SARAS Mela in uplifting rural livelihoods. He stated that the fair has significantly contributed to making women financially independent by providing them with opportunities to showcase and sell their art. He urged citizens to support and promote rural products, reinforcing the importance of self-sufficiency and entrepreneurship among SHG members.

Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani remarked that SARAS Mela has evolved beyond a simple exhibition into a movement, where women are transitioning from being workers to job providers. He pointed out that SHG members are not just beneficiaries but are now leading India’s economic progress as entrepreneurs. He also highlighted that SHGs are now able to sell their products directly to the government through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), further strengthening their financial independence.

Kamlesh Paswan echoed similar sentiments, stating that SARAS Mela has become synonymous with empowerment, providing a significant platform for rural artisans. He noted the increasing consumer preference for organic and sustainable products, a trend that is being actively supported through the fair.

SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025, which runs from February 21 to March 10, 2025, is themed around “Tradition, Art, and Culture” and “Developing the Export Potential of Lakhpati SHG Didis.” Organized by the Ministry of Rural Development in collaboration with the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR), the event brings together artisans and entrepreneurs from across the country. More than 200 stalls are displaying a wide array of handloom, handicrafts, and natural food products made by SHGs from 30 states. The fair also features 25 live food stalls offering authentic regional delicacies from 20 states. Around 450 SHG members are actively participating in this year’s edition.

The exhibition boasts an impressive collection of traditional handloom sarees and fabrics from various states, including Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Mekhela Chadar from Assam, Tussar Silk and Cotton from Jharkhand, Chanderi and Bagh Print from Madhya Pradesh, Kanchipuram Silk from Tamil Nadu, Pashmina from Uttarakhand, and Kantha, Batik Print, Tant, and Baluchari from West Bengal. In addition to textiles, the fair also showcases an array of handicrafts, jewelry, home décor items, and organic food products such as ginger, tea, pulses, coffee, papad, apple jam, and pickles, offering visitors a diverse range of options.

To enhance the experience for attendees, the SARAS Mela has introduced special arrangements, including dedicated zones for senior citizens, children, and mothers’ care. Daily cultural performances are also being held, adding vibrancy to the fair and offering visitors a glimpse into India’s rich artistic heritage. A special export promotion pavilion has been set up to help SHG entrepreneurs connect with international buyers, further expanding their market reach.

Launched under the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) by the Ministry of Rural Development, SARAS Mela plays a vital role in supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative and his vision of ‘Developed India by 2047.’ By fostering financial independence and market access for SHG entrepreneurs, the fair continues to serve as a key driver of sustainable rural development and economic empowerment.