The National SARAS Ajeevika Mela, held at Punnami Ghat in Vijayawada, has generated sales of around Rs 2 crore, according to Sudhir Kumar, additional director of the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.
Speaking at a press conference at the mela venue on Saturday, Sudhir Kumar mentioned that the exhibition attracts between 40,000 and 50,000 visitors daily. The event aims to support women entrepreneurs and expand market access for products made by rural Self-Help Groups.
The Union Ministry of Rural Development, along with the Andhra Pradesh State Rural Livelihoods Mission, organized the mela. Approximately 1,500 women entrepreneurs from 32 States and Union Territories across the country are participating.
The exhibition features nearly 600 stalls displaying handlooms, handicrafts, and natural food items. A dedicated food court with 50 live food stalls allows visitors to experience traditional cuisines from various regions.
