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SARAS Aajeevika Melas 2026-27: Rural Crafts & Food Fairs in Delhi-NCR

The Ministry of Rural Development has announced the calendar for SARAS Aajeevika Melas for FY 2026-27 in Delhi-NCR. Three major events will be held, including a food festival and two melas showcasing rural crafts and products. These events aim to connect rural women entrepreneurs with urban consumers, promoting local livelihoods and the 'Vocal for Local' initiative. The fairs will feature handlooms, handicrafts, organic goods, and regional cuisines from across India.

Key Points: SARAS Melas 2026-27: Rural Crafts & Food in Delhi-NCR

  • Three major SARAS events in Delhi-NCR from Oct 2026 to Feb 2027
  • SARAS Mela in Gurugram (Oct 22-Nov 6, 2026)
  • SARAS Food Festival in New Delhi (Nov 21-Dec 8, 2026)
  • SARAS Mela at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, New Delhi (Feb 1-28, 2027)
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SARAS Aajeevika Melas to be held in Gurugram, New Delhi from Oct 2026-Feb 2027

Ministry of Rural Development finalises SARAS Aajeevika Melas 2026-27 in Gurugram & New Delhi. Events promote rural women entrepreneurs and traditional crafts.

"The Melas enable rural women entrepreneurs to directly connect with urban consumers, helping enhance income opportunities and visibility for their products. - Ministry of Rural Development"

New Delhi, April 24

The Ministry of Rural Development has finalised the calendar of SARAS Aajeevika Melas at the national level for FY 2026-27, aimed at promoting rural livelihoods, women entrepreneurship and traditional crafts across the country.

According to the ministry, three major SARAS events will be organised in the National Capital Region during the period. The SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2026 will be held at Leisure Valley Park, Gurugram, from October 22 to November 6, 2026, followed by the SARAS Food Festival 2026 at Sunder Nursery in New Delhi from November 21 to December 8, 2026.

The SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2027 will be organised at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi from February 1 to February 28, 2027.

SARAS Aajeevika Melas are flagship events under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), providing a platform for self-help groups and artisans from across the country.

The ministry said the Melas enable rural women entrepreneurs to directly connect with urban consumers, helping enhance income opportunities and visiblity for their products.

Participants from states and Union Territories are expected to showcase a range of products, including handlooms, handicrafts, natural and organic goods, and regional cuisines.

The initiative aims to strengthen the rural economy by providing direct market access, promoting 'Vocal for Local' and Atmanirbhar Bharat and supporting capacity building in packaging, branding and marketing.

The Melas will also showcase cultural diversity through traditional art forms, food and performances, contributing to inclusive growth and preservation of indigenous crafts. The 2026-27 calendar reflects the Government's continued commitment to expanding market-led livelihood opportunities for rural communities and empowering women-led enterprises, the ministry noted.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

V
Vikram M
While I appreciate the intent, I hope the organizers focus on quality control and fair pricing. Often, these melas become too commercial, and the artisans end up losing money on travel and stall fees. But if executed well with proper branding and packaging support, this could truly empower rural entrepreneurs.
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Kavya N
Finally something in Gurugram! Leisure Valley Park is such a nice spot for families. I remember buying some amazing organic honey and handwoven stoles last time. The Food Festival in Sunder Nursery sounds perfect too. Kudos to the ministry for making rural products accessible to us city folks.
A
Arjun K
This is great for Atmanirbhar Bharat! But we need more than just events. Why not create a permanent online marketplace for these SHGs? Many rural women now have smartphones but lack digital marketing skills. The govt should partner with platforms like Amazon or Flipkart to give them year-round visibility, not just for a few weeks.
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Sarah B
As an expat living in Delhi, I'm really excited about this! I've been to similar events in other countries, and the authenticity of Indian handicrafts is unmatched. The cultural performances are a bonus. I'll definitely mark my calendar for the February 2027 Mela at the National Stadium. Great way to support local artisans! 😊
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Nikhil C
I appreciate the effort, but I hope the food festival has better hygiene standards this time. Went to a similar event last year and the food quality was hit or miss. Also, please ensure proper waste management at these venues. Other than that, it's a great move for rural women empowerment and 'Vocal

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