National SARAS Mela 2026:
The National SARAS Mela 2026, organised in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, marks the first National SARAS Mela outside Delhi-NCR, bringing together women entrepreneurs from 34 States and Union Territories to promote Self-Help Group (SHG) enterprises, market access and sustainable rural livelihoods under DAY-NRLM.
- SARAS Mela is a government-supported platform organised under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) to connect rural women entrepreneurs particularly Self-Help Groups (SHGs), with consumers, institutional buyers and wider markets.
- The first National SARAS Mela was organised in Delhi in 1999, with approximately 65 beneficiaries. It has since expanded to national, regional, state and district levels.
- A total of 117 National SARAS Melas have been organised, with annual sales exceeding ₹200 crore.
- States and UTs are expected to organise at least two State-level SARAS Melas annually, contributing to an average of around 50 events nationwide.
- Handlooms, handicrafts, traditional textiles, natural products, processed foods and regional cuisines, alongside an India Food Court, cultural showcases and dedicated learning spaces.
- The initiative involves collaboration with institutions such as NABARD, the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR) and other government and private-sector stakeholders.
- Digital Market Access:
- eSARAS Platform: An e-commerce initiative enabling customers to discover and purchase products made by SHG entrepreneurs beyond physical exhibitions.
- SARAS Mela Digital App (2025): Facilitates SHG nominations, attendance management and event-related information.
- Digital Payments: Promotes UPI-based transactions, while retaining alternative payment arrangements for financial inclusivity.
