Ministry of Rural Development Finalises Calendar of SARAS Aajeevika Melas for FY 2026–27

**Executive Summary** The Ministry of Rural Development has finalized the FY 2026–27 calendar for SARAS Aajeevika Melas, scheduled to take place in Gurugram and New Delhi from October 2026 to February 2027. These flagship events under the DAY-NRLM initiative aim to empower rural women entrepreneurs and artisans by providing direct market access and capacity-building support. The scheduled events include two large-scale Melas and a dedicated Food Festival to promote rural livelihoods and traditional Indian crafts. **Key Points / Main Content** **Event Schedule (FY 2026–27)** * **SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2026:** Held at Leisure Valley Park, Gurugram, from 22 October to 6 November 2026 (17 days). * **SARAS Food Festival 2026:** Held at Sunder Nursery, New Delhi, from 21 November to 8 December 2026 (18 days). * **SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2027:** Held at Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium, New Delhi, from 1 February to 28 February 2027 (28 days). **Core Objectives and Mission** * Organized as flagship events under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). * Aims to promote rural livelihoods, women’s entrepreneurship, and the preservation of indigenous crafts. * Supports national initiatives including ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. **Platform and Market Linkages** * Provides a national platform for rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and artisans to connect directly with urban consumers. * Showcases diverse regional products, including handlooms, handicrafts, natural and organic products, and regional cuisines. * Facilitates capacity building for rural entrepreneurs in branding, packaging, and marketing. * Serves as a cultural showcase for India’s traditional art forms, food, and performances. **Impact Analysis** **Rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Artisans** **Impact** They receive a high-visibility national platform to sell products directly to urban markets, significantly enhancing their income and visibility. **Action Required** Prepare and curate regional products (handlooms, handicrafts, or organic goods) for exhibition and participate in the scheduled events across Gurugram and New Delhi. **Women Entrepreneurs** **Impact** Empowered through direct market exposure and provided with opportunities for capacity building in professional packaging and marketing. **Action Required** Represent their respective States and Union Territories at the Melas and engage in branding and marketing training provided during the events. **Ministry of Rural Development / DAY-NRLM** **Impact** Demonstrates continued commitment to expanding market-led livelihood opportunities and strengthening the rural economy. **Action Required** Oversee the organization and execution of the three major NCR-based events as per the approved 2026–27 calendar. **Urban Consumers** **Impact** Gain direct access to authentic regional cuisines, traditional art forms, and diverse indigenous products from across India. **Action Required** Visit the specified venues in Gurugram and New Delhi during the event dates to engage with rural producers.

Key Entities Referenced