Visitors look at the products in a stall at the ongoing National SARAS Mela–2026 at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada.
| Photo Credit: G.N. RAO
Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya visited the National SARAS Mela–2026 in Vijayawada on Saturday.
Interacting with women entrepreneurs from various Self Help Groups (SHGs), the Minister of State learnt about their handicraft products, business activities and experiences in producing and marketing their goods. Emphasising the importance of product presentation, she urged the women entrepreneurs to focus on attractive and quality packaging, noting that improved packaging can enhance product appeal, attract customers and help increase sales.
Addressing the gathering after the interaction, Ms. Bambhaniya highlighted the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in empowering Lakhpati Didis and enabling rural women to become financially independent and self-reliant. She appreciated the transformation of SHG women from wage earners into entrepreneurs creating livelihood opportunities and generating employment for others.
The Minister expressed confidence that organising the event in Vijayawada would encourage wider participation by States in future editions and create greater opportunities for women-led enterprises across the country. Later, the Minister toured the exhibition stalls, viewed the products showcased by SHG women from different States and encouraged the participating women entrepreneurs.
According to information from the A.P. State Rural Livelihoods Mission, the mela recorded cumulative sales of ₹7.17 crore from October 15 to 23, with 2.77 lakh products sold.
Published – October 24, 2026 11:45 pm IST
