Women entrepreneurs urged to focus on attractive, quality packaging at SARAS Mela

Women entrepreneurs are being advised to prioritize attractive and high-quality packaging at the National SARAS Mela–2026, currently taking place in Vijayawada. The fair showcases a diverse array of handicrafts, handloom products, traditional items, and food products created by women self-help groups and artisans from across various states, offering them a platform to highlight their skills, promote local goods, and bolster women's entrepreneurship.

During her visit to the event on Saturday, Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, the Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, engaged with women entrepreneurs representing different Self Help Groups (SHGs). She learned about their handicraft products, business undertakings, and the experiences they've gained in producing and marketing their goods.

The minister emphasized the significance of product presentation, urging the women entrepreneurs to concentrate on attractive and quality packaging. She argued that enhanced packaging can elevate product appeal, draw in customers, and contribute to a rise in sales.

After the interaction, Ms. Bambhaniya reminded the audience about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of empowering Lakhpati Didis—financially independent and self-reliant rural women. She praised the transformation of SHG women from merely wage earners into entrepreneurs who are generating livelihood opportunities and creating employment for others.

The minister expressed confidence that hosting the event in Vijayawada would motivate more states to participate in future editions, expanding opportunities for women-led enterprises nationwide.

According to information provided by the A.P. State Rural Livelihoods Mission, the mela generated a cumulative revenue of ₹7.17 crore from October 15 to 23, with 2.77 lakh products sold.