The National SARAS Mela 2026, organised in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, marks the first edition of the national-level event to be held outside the Delhi-NCR region. The mela brings together women entrepreneurs from 34 States and Union Territories, providing Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with opportunities to showcase products, connect with buyers and expand their markets under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM).
What are the Key Facts About SARAS Mela?
SARAS Mela is a government-supported marketplace designed to connect rural women-led SHG enterprises with consumers, institutional buyers and wider markets.
The first National SARAS Mela was organised in Delhi in 1999, with around 65 beneficiaries. Since then, the initiative has expanded into national, state, regional and district-level events. As of 2026, 117 National SARAS Melas have been organised, generating annual sales of more than ₹200 crore.
The mela showcases a diverse range of products, including handlooms, handicrafts, traditional textiles, natural products, processed foods and regional cuisines. Cultural programmes, an India Food Court and learning spaces further enhance the event.
The initiative also benefits from collaboration with institutions such as NABARD and NIRDPR, along with other government and private-sector stakeholders.
Digital tools have expanded the reach of SHG products. The eSARAS platform enables customers to purchase products beyond physical exhibitions, while the SARAS Mela Digital App, introduced in 2025, supports nominations and event management. UPI and other payment options also promote convenient and inclusive transactions.
What is the Role of DAY-NRLM and Lakhpati Didi in Rural Women Empowerment?
DAY-NRLM promotes rural women’s economic empowerment by organising women into SHGs and providing access to credit, skills, technology and livelihood opportunities.
SARAS Melas strengthen this ecosystem by helping women improve branding, direct marketing, buyer linkages and access to larger markets.
The Lakhpati Didi initiative seeks to enable SHG women to achieve sustainable annual household incomes of at least ₹1 lakh. The initiative’s target was raised to 3 crore women, which was achieved by December 2025, and was subsequently enhanced to 6 crore Lakhpati Didis in February 2026.
Conclusion
National SARAS Mela 2026 demonstrates the shift from traditional livelihood support towards market-oriented women-led entrepreneurship. By combining SHGs, digital commerce, institutional partnerships and initiatives such as Lakhpati Didi, SARAS Mela can help rural women diversify incomes, expand enterprises and gain stronger access to national markets.
The initiative therefore contributes to inclusive rural development, women’s economic empowerment and the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
5 FAQs – National SARAS Mela 2026
What is National SARAS Mela 2026?
National SARAS Mela is a government-supported marketplace that provides rural women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) an opportunity to showcase products, connect with buyers and expand their markets.
Where is National SARAS Mela 2026 being organised?
The National SARAS Mela 2026 is being organised in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, marking the first national-level edition held outside the Delhi-NCR region.
Which government programme is associated with SARAS Mela?
SARAS Mela operates under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), which promotes rural livelihoods and women’s economic empowerment through SHGs.
What is the Lakhpati Didi initiative?
The Lakhpati Didi initiative aims to enable women from SHGs to achieve a sustainable annual household income of at least ₹1 lakh. Its target was enhanced to 6 crore Lakhpati Didis in February 2026.
How does SARAS Mela support rural women entrepreneurs?
It provides opportunities for branding, direct marketing, buyer linkages and access to larger markets. Digital platforms such as eSARAS further enable customers to purchase SHG products beyond physical exhibitions.
