Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani, while briefing the media about SARAS Mela 2026, said that Guntur will host the prestigious national-level SARAS Mela from 6^th January to 18^th January 2026, marking a significant milestone for the region. He added that the event will bring together Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from across all States of India to showcase their craftsmanship and entrepreneurial spirit.

Highlighting the importance of the event, Dr. Pemmasani stated that the Mela serves as a vital platform for DWCRA (Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas) women of Andhra Pradesh. He said this is a unique opportunity for local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to understand national and global standards, explore new product possibilities, and learn modern marketing strategies to scale their businesses.

The prestigious The 13-day National-level SARAS-2026 exhibition will be inaugurated at 4:00 PM on 8^th January 2026 in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, by the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh in the presence of the Union Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development, Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar.  

This is the first time an event of this scale is being hosted in Guntur, marking a significant milestone in bringing a flagship National rural livelihoods initiative to the district. The 13-day Mela will showcase India’s rich cultural heritage and diverse artisanal products, while promoting rural artisans and SHGs by providing them a platform to display and sell their products.

SARAS Mela are a flagship initiative aimed at the economic empowerment of women SHG members through sustainable livelihoods. As a National SARAS event, SARAS–2026 will bring together around 300 women artisans and entrepreneurs from 21 States and Union Territories, offering them national-level exposure and market access.

The Mela will showcase India’s rich cultural and craft diversity through a wide range of authentic handmade products, including bamboo crafts; handlooms and textiles such as Pochampally and Gadwal weaves; traditional jewellery; handicrafts; home décor items; jute and other eco-friendly products. Visitors will also be able to experience India’s culinary richness at a dedicated All-India SHG Food Court, offering regional delicacies such as Rayalaseema cuisine, Madugula Halwa, Bheemili Thandra, and Atreyapuram Pootharekulu.

Cultural and entertainment programmes will be organised every evening, with special attractions for children. The event will feature Inter-State, State-Level and District-Level cultural performances.

In addition, structured capacity-building and training sessions for SHG members will be conducted on key livelihood themes by expert resource persons. A dedicated Lakhapati Didi Pavilion will showcase the success stories of women entrepreneurs, highlighting district-wise participation and a wide range of diverse livelihood activities.

Comprehensive arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of the event. The venue will be under 24×7 surveillance with over 100 CCTV cameras, supported by round-the-clock security personnel deployed in three shifts. Participating SHG members will be provided free accommodation, food, and transportation throughout the event period.

SARAS–2026 is being organised by the Guntur Zilla Samakhya, in coordination with the District Rural Development Agency (DRDA) and the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP). The event will be held at the Open Ground opposite Reddy College, Adarsha Nagar, Narasaraopet Road, Guntur, and entry will be free for all visitors.

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