A vibrant display of India’s handicraft heritage at Shilp Samagam Mela–2026 in Ahmedabad — where tradition meets digital empowerment. – NE photo
- Union Minister Virendra Kumar inaugurates mega handicrafts expo at Vallabh Sadan, Sabarmati Riverfront
- 75 stalls, 14 States, 1 powerful mission: self-reliance, dignity and social empowerment
- Bharat Tulip, PM-SURAJ, PM-DAKSH and VISVAS schemes accelerate financial inclusion and skill development
- SEED Scheme forms 5,581 Women SHGs; 75,000 Ayushman Cards distributed for holistic empowerment
- Shilp Samagam strengthens MSME artisans with direct marketing, digital platforms and national outreach
GOWRI MANICKAVASAGAM
AHMEDABAD, FEB 26
Ahmedabad’s iconic Sabarmati Riverfront has transformed into a vibrant confluence of culture, craftsmanship and empowerment as Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Virendra Kumar, inaugurated Shilp Samagam Mela–2026 at Vallabh Sadan.
Artisans from 14 States showcase craftsmanship and self-reliance at Shilp Samagam–2026, transforming Sabarmati Riverfront into a marketplace of dignity. – NE photo
Calling it far more than a marketplace, the Minister declared, “This is not merely an exhibition of products, but a celebration of self-reliance, dignity and social empowerment.”
Extending greetings ahead of Holi, he said the mela reflects the Ministry’s sustained commitment to economically empower marginalized communities and integrate them into the mainstream economy.
Highlighting its growing national footprint, the Minister informed that since 2014, nearly 100 Shilp Samagam Melas have been organized or participated in by the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment. During 2025–26 alone, five such melas have been held, with more planned for 2026–27.
Describing Ahmedabad as a fitting venue, he noted its historic association with the freedom movement, Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram, and as the karmabhoomi of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel — making it an ideal setting for an inclusive, nation-building initiative.
A Marketplace of Heritage & Hope
Running from February 26 to March 4, the mela features 75 stalls from artisans across 14 States, showcasing India’s diverse handicraft excellence — from Lucknowi Chikankari and Banarasi sarees to Chanderi and Maheshwari textiles, Bhagalpuri Tussar silk, Jaipuri and Kolhapuri footwear, Agate stone work, bamboo crafts, Kota Doria and exquisite carpets.
The Minister underlined that Shilp Samagam provides a direct marketing platform for artisans belonging to Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, Safai Karamcharis, Divyangjans, De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes (DNT/NT/SNT), Senior Citizens and the Transgender community.
For artisans unable to attend physically, the Ministry has developed the ‘Bharat Tulip’ online platform, integrated with leading e-commerce portals. A dedicated Bharat Tulip Showroom at the venue further expands digital-to-physical market access.
Digital Governance Meets Grassroots Empowerment
The Minister highlighted that on March 13, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated the PM-SURAJ Portal to the nation, ensuring transparent delivery of concessional loan schemes. The PM-DAKSH Portal supports skill training, while the SFMP Portal facilitates scholarships — collectively strengthening transparency and efficiency.
Under the SEED Scheme for De-notified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, 5,581 Women Self-Help Groups across eight States have been formed, receiving Revolving Funds, Entry Point Funds and skill training. Additionally, nearly 75,000 Ayushman Cards have been distributed under the health component.
He further informed that under the Ministry’s VISVAS Yojana, eligible beneficiaries receive a 5% interest subvention on bank loans, while the NAMASTE Scheme ensures safety and dignity for sanitation workers engaged in septic tank and sewer work.
The Apex Corporations under the Ministry have extended loan assistance to nearly 60 lakh individuals and families, and provided skill training to more than 6 lakh youth, strengthening India’s social justice architecture.
“A Bridge to Self-Reliance and Dignity”
Expressing optimism about the Ahmedabad edition, the Minister said the Shilp Samagam Mela will not only boost artisan sales but also connect them to new opportunities, economic independence and lasting dignity.
Reaffirming the Ministry’s unwavering commitment, he concluded with best wishes to all participants and emphasized that such initiatives are crucial in bringing marginalized communities into the mainstream of India’s growth story.
