The Ministry of Rural Development announced on 12 October 2026 that the National SARAS Mela 2026 will be held in Vijayawada from 13 to 31 October 2026. This event, held in collaboration with the Andhra Pradesh government, brings over 1,500 women from Self-Help Groups across more than 30 States and Union Territories to showcase and sell traditional crafts and regional cuisines. The Mela will be formally inaugurated by the President of India on 15 October 2026. It aims to help rural women transform their skills into sustainable businesses and achieve financial independence.
Key points
- Dates: 13 to 31 October 2026 at Punnami Ghat, Vijayawada
- Participants: 1,500+ women entrepreneurs from 30+ States and UTs
- Inauguration: 15 October 2026 by the President of India
- Features: 50 food stalls, Lakhpati Didi Pavilion, and Knowledge Pavilion
- Goal: Support the vision of creating 6 crore Lakhpati Didis by 2029
When it applies
- National SARAS Mela 2026
- National SARAS Mela 2026
- Inauguration of National SARAS Mela 2026
Who it affects
- women from Self-Help Groups
Refers to
- Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)