The national-level SARAS Mela 2026 will be hosted in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, from 6 January to 18 January 2026. The 13-day event will bring together women’s Self-Help Groups from across India to display handmade products, traditional crafts, regional foods and livelihood innovations. It is being seen as a major platform for rural women entrepreneurs, especially SHG members and DWCRA women in Andhra Pradesh.
Event Significance
SARAS Mela is a flagship rural livelihoods initiative linked to women’s economic empowerment. It provides market access, visibility and business exposure to SHG members. The Guntur edition is notable as the first event of this scale to be held in the district.
Participation and Exhibits
- Around 300 women artisans and entrepreneurs from 21 States and Union Territories will participate.
- The exhibition will feature bamboo crafts, handlooms, textiles, traditional jewellery, handicrafts, home décor and eco-friendly products.
- Popular Andhra Pradesh food items will be available at the All-India SHG Food Court.
- The event will also include cultural performances from inter-state, state and district levels.
Capacity Building and Livelihood Support
The mela will include training sessions for SHG members on livelihood themes, product development and marketing. It is intended to help rural women understand national and global quality standards, explore new products and improve business scale. A dedicated Lakhapati Didi Pavilion will show successful women entrepreneurs and district-level livelihood models.
Organisation and Arrangements
The event is being organised by Guntur Zilla Samakhya, with the District Rural Development Agency and the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty. The venue will be at the Open Ground opposite Reddy College, Adarsha Nagar, Narasaraopet Road, Guntur. Free accommodation, food and transport will be provided to participating SHG members, and the site will have round-the-clock security with CCTV surveillance.
Last Modified: April 25, 2026