Guntur: The SARAS–2026 exhibition will be inaugurated on January 8, 2026, in Guntur, Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Dr. Pemmasani Chandra Sekhar said on Tuesday.
Addressing the media, Dr. Pemmasani said Guntur was hosting the national-level SARAS–2026 exhibition from January 6 to January 18. He said the event marked a major milestone by bringing a flagship rural livelihoods initiative to the district for the first time.
The Union Minister said the SARAS–2026 exhibition would serve as a vital platform for DWCRA women of Andhra Pradesh. Therefore, local Self-Help Groups would gain exposure to national and global standards. In addition, they would explore new product avenues and learn modern marketing strategies.
Dr. Pemmasani said around 300 women artisans and entrepreneurs from 21 States and Union Territories would participate. As a result, the exhibition would offer national-level exposure and direct market access.
SARAS–2026 exhibition to showcase crafts, food and SHG success stories
Dr. Pemmasani said the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh would inaugurate the 13-day exhibition at 4 pm on January 8 in Guntur. Meanwhile, the event would highlight India’s cultural heritage and promote sustainable livelihoods.
The SARAS–2026 exhibition will showcase handmade products such as bamboo crafts, handlooms, Pochampally and Gadwal textiles, traditional jewellery, handicrafts, home décor items, and eco-friendly jute products.
In addition, visitors will experience regional cuisines at the All-India SHG Food Court. The food court will serve Rayalaseema dishes, Madugula Halwa, Bheemili Thandra, and Atreyapuram Pootharekulu.
Cultural programmes will take place every evening. These will include inter-State, State-level, and district-level performances. Furthermore, organisers will arrange special entertainment activities for children.
Dr. Pemmasani said expert resource persons would conduct structured capacity-building sessions for SHG members. Moreover, a dedicated Lakhapati Didi Pavilion will showcase district-wise success stories of women entrepreneurs.
He said authorities had ensured robust safety arrangements for the event. Accordingly, the venue will remain under 24×7 surveillance with over 100 CCTV cameras and three-shift security deployment. Participating SHG members will receive free accommodation, food, and transportation.
The SARAS–2026 exhibition is being organised by the Guntur Zilla Samakhya in coordination with the District Rural Development Agency and the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty. The event will take place at the Open Ground opposite Reddy College, Adarsha Nagar, Narasaraopet Road, Guntur. Entry will remain free for all visitors.
