Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday (September 09, 2025) inaugurated the SARAS Ajeevika Mela at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi. Organised by the Ministry of Rural Development, the fair is being held from September 5 to 22 and showcases products of over 400 ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from self-help groups across India.
Minister Chouhan said the event reflects the vision of a self-reliant India and urged citizens to adopt swadeshi products. “Over 2 crore Didis have already become Lakhpatis, and soon the number will cross 3 crore,” he said, while pledging full support for rural women entrepreneurs. He also invited the women participants to share a community meal at his residence.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta praised the fair as an important step towards empowering women under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She said the Delhi government is committed to strengthening self-help groups and promoting women’s economic independence.
Both Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Rekha Gupta, along with other dignitaries, visited the stalls, interacted with the women entrepreneurs, and appreciated their creativity, quality, and contribution to community empowerment. India Food Court at the venue is serving traditional cuisines from different states, while cultural programmes showcasing the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’ are being held daily to enhance the festive atmosphere.
Saras Ajeevika Mela is one of India’s largest platforms for rural self-help groups to display their products, connect with wider markets, and promote the idea of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. The Ministry has urged citizens, policymakers, and industry leaders to support rural women entrepreneurs and experience India’s diverse crafts and cultural heritage at the fair.
Union Ministers of State Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani and Kamlesh Paswan, Rural Development Secretary Shailesh Kumar Singh, Delhi Chief Secretary Dharmendra, a large number of ‘Lakhpati Didis’ from self-help groups, senior officials, and several public representatives were present on the occasion.
