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Gujarat's Swadeshi Fairs Hit Rs 83 Lakh Sales, Target All Municipalities

Gujarat's Swadeshi Fairs, organized under the Gujarat Urban Livelihood Mission, have recorded sales exceeding Rs 83 lakh from events in 38 municipalities so far. The initiative aims to provide a marketplace for artisans, self-help groups, and small traders to sell indigenous products, with a target to cover all 152 state municipalities by March 15. The program has seen strong public turnout, with over one lakh visitors attending the initial fairs. It builds on the success of last year's plastic-free Swadeshi Festivals and aligns with the broader 'Vocal for Local' and self-reliance initiatives.

Key Points: Gujarat Swadeshi Fairs to Cover 152 Municipalities by March 15

  • Over Rs 83 lakh sales recorded
  • Fairs in 38 municipalities so far
  • Target: all 152 by March 15
  • Part of 'Vocal for Local' push
  • Builds on last year's successful festivals
2 min read

Gujarat: 'Swadeshi Fairs' to cover all 152 municipalities by March 15

Gujarat's Swadeshi Fairs generate over Rs 83 lakh sales, aiming to cover all 152 municipalities by March 15 under the Vocal for Local initiative.

"The figures indicate growing public participation in the 'Vocal for Local' initiative. - Officials"

Gandhinagar, Feb 25

With more than Rs 83 lakh in sales recorded across 38 municipalities so far, Gujarat's statewide rollout of Swadeshi Mela has gathered pace ahead of its March 15 deadline.

According to officials, Swadeshi Fairs are being organised under the Gujarat Urban Livelihood Mission, which functions under the Urban Development and Urban Housing Department.

The initiative aims to provide a structured marketplace for rural and urban artisans, handicraftsmen, self-help groups and small traders to showcase and sell indigenous products.

The government stated that by March 15, Swadeshi Fairs will be held in all 152 municipalities across the state.

As part of the arrangements, more than 1,500 stalls have been allotted to self-help groups, over 1,400 to street vendors, around 1,200 for food and refreshments, and more than 1,650 to other artisans selling indigenous goods.

So far, fairs have commenced in 38 municipalities, including those in the Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar, Gandhinagar, Rajkot, Surat and Vadodara zones.

More than one lakh visitors have attended these events, generating sales exceeding Rs 83 lakh.

The figures, officials said, indicate growing public participation in the 'Vocal for Local' initiative.

The officials noted that the programme builds on the success of plastic-free 'Swadeshi Festivals' organised during the Dussehra to Diwali period last year in 16 cities.

Those events attracted more than 40.50 lakh visitors and recorded sales of over Rs 10 crore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called upon citizens to adopt indigenous products as part of the 'Vocal for Local' initiative aimed at building a self-reliant India.

The statement said the Gujarat government, under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, has undertaken initiatives including the Gujarat Atmanirbhar Yatra, G-Maitri Yojana and Mahila Udyog Sahay Yojana to strengthen support for artisans and small enterprises.

The government said the fairs are intended not only as trading platforms but also as a measure to strengthen the local economy by expanding opportunities for small producers and vendors across urban areas of the state.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh Q
Rs 83 lakh sales is impressive for just 38 municipalities. Imagine the potential when it covers all 152! This can be a game-changer for small vendors and SHGs. Hope the quality control is maintained so people keep coming back.
A
Aman W
While the concept is good, I hope this isn't just a temporary fair. Artisans need year-round market access, not just seasonal melas. The government should also focus on improving their online presence and logistics.
S
Sarah B
As someone who loves Indian crafts, this is wonderful. The diversity of products from different regions is incredible. It also helps preserve traditional arts which are dying. Great step for cultural and economic growth.
V
Vikram M
Building on the success of the plastic-free festivals is smart. Gujarat is showing the way for Atmanirbhar Bharat. My mother's self-help group is participating and they are very excited. Jai Hind!
K
Kriti O
Over 1,500 stalls for SHGs is commendable. Empowering women entrepreneurs is key to a strong economy. Hope they get good footfall in smaller municipalities too, not just the big cities.

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