Saras Ajeevika Mela: Women Entrepreneurs Showcase Skills, Inspire Rural Self-Reliance In Delhi

The ongoing Saras Aajeevika Mela at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, Delhi, is showcasing the spirit of female entrepreneurship and self-reliance, with women from across India running stalls and supporting their families through their skills. The fair also serves as a source of inspiration for rural women, highlighting pathways to economic independence.

The mela caters to people of all ages, offering stalls with toys for children, apparel, bedsheets, and food items for homemakers. Among the exhibitors, 20-year-old Lakhpati Didi Shikha from Ludhiana is selling self-made soft toys at prices lower than market rates. Shikha said, “Self-employment has allowed me to bring affordable and durable toys to children while supporting my family.” She is offering 30–35 varieties of toys at the fair.

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Another success story is Gulbahar from Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh, who trained in sewing and embroidery to support her household. She later formed an 11-member women’s group producing high-demand embroidered bedsheets, now sold in markets beyond UP. Gulbahar said, “Where I once had to think before spending ten rupees, today I am employing women in my village.”

Neetu Devi from Hajipur, Bihar, also shared her inspiring journey. Facing financial challenges, she joined a self-help group to cultivate makhana (fox nuts) despite opposition from her in-laws. Today, she earns a good income and employs eight to ten women in her area. Neetu said, “The same people who opposed me now take pride in my work.”

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Dr Mauli Shri, Director at the Ministry of Rural Development, said, “The Saras Mela shows how women on the path to self-reliance are not only improving their own lives but transforming their entire villages.”

A total of 200 Lakhpati Didis from 31 states have set up stalls at the Saras Mela, demonstrating the growing impact of women entrepreneurship in rural India.