Vijayawada, October 15, 2026: President Droupadi Murmu attended the National SARAS Mela in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, on Thursday, highlighting the role of women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and rural markets in promoting inclusive development and strengthening the rural economy.
The event was organised by the Union Ministry of Rural Development in collaboration with the Government of Andhra Pradesh. The President visited exhibition stalls and interacted with Lakhpati Didis and women entrepreneurs participating in the fair.
Women’s SHGs Strengthen Rural Economy
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu said rural women play a vital role in agriculture and are increasingly contributing to economic growth through Self-Help Groups. She noted that SHGs have created opportunities for women’s financial, technical and social empowerment, while also increasing their participation in entrepreneurship and household economic decision-making.
According to the President, more than 10 crore women are associated with over 90 lakh Self-Help Groups across the country. These groups have contributed to family welfare, community activities and the expansion of collective enterprises, supporting inclusive rural development.
Lakhpati Didi Initiative Opens New Opportunities
The President highlighted the Government of India’s Lakhpati Didi initiative, which has given fresh momentum to efforts to empower rural women. She also pointed to emerging opportunities in modern sectors such as digital services and renewable energy, which can support skill development and livelihood diversification.
She said rural women are increasingly becoming wealth creators and contributors to development rather than remaining only beneficiaries of government schemes.
However, she stressed that further progress is needed. Women’s empowerment should also be measured by their control over personal income and assets. She called for stronger community-based support systems to help women manage domestic care responsibilities and greater participation in climate-resilient enterprises.
SARAS Mela Connects Women Entrepreneurs With Consumers
President Murmu described SARAS Melas as important platforms for strengthening rural markets and connecting women entrepreneurs directly with consumers across India.
She said Self-Help Groups and SARAS Melas could play a leading role in extending the benefits of development to every village and household as India works towards the goal of Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Over 650 Stalls at National SARAS Mela
The current edition of the National SARAS Mela features products showcased by around 1,500 women SHG entrepreneurs and Lakhpati Didis from 34 States and Union Territories. The participants are displaying their products across more than 650 stalls.
The fair will remain open to visitors until October 31, 2026, providing a platform for rural women entrepreneurs to promote their products and reach a wider customer base.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.
