Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav promises rs 30 million business turnover with focus on rural crafts and global markets | India News

The first Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav will be hosted in Delhi from December 6 to 8 at Bharat Mandapam to commercially showcase crafts, art, culture and an amalgam of the diversity of the Northeastern region. Organised by the ministry of development of north eastern region (MDoNER), the event will have eight State pavilions and a rural haat bazaar where 320 (40 from each state) grassroots artisans/ farmers from as many rural locations. The event is expected to generate a business turnover of Rs 20 million from its pavilions and another Rs 10 million from the buyer-seller meet which will facilitate direct dialogue between 40 buyers and 50 artisans.
The event, to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will showcase 33 GI-tagged products to connect rural crafts to the global market as well as two unique exhibitions on Muga and Eri silk. Music lovers will get an opportunity to enjoy three nights of live performances, including the renowned Shillong Chamber Choir. Respective chief ministers are also expected at the event.
Jyotiraditya Scindia stated that the festival encapsulates the potential of the Northeast as both a “cultural treasure and an economic powerhouse” and it reflects how a “Developed Northeast” is integral to achieving a “Developed India.”
Scindia said: “The importance of this region will be showcased not just at the national level, but globally, which our government sees as the engine of India’s growth story.” The minister added that Delhi next year in April-May will also host a Northeast investor’s summit for which MoUs Rs 9,500 cr has already been signed through various road shows. “If needed, the Centre will also facilitate roadshows for the chief ministers of the States in foreign destinations,” said Scindia.
Key highlights of the festival include the State Pavilions, where visitors can explore the Northeast’s rich history and traditions through immersive virtual reality experiences. Featuring 200 artisans, the pavilions will showcase traditional crafts, textiles, and modern products, with an expected business turnover of Rs 20 million.
The minister also emphasised the importance of involving major bankers to create a robust financial ecosystem in the region and informed that a bankers’ summit will be held in the coming days to strengthen the banking infrastructure in the Northeast and improve access to credit and financial services for entrepreneurs and startups.
Envisaged to be an annual event, Scindia the spotlight will be on the exquisite craftsmanship of Muga and Eri silk weavers. This pavilion will also feature unique creations by 15 renowned designers, celebrating the global appeal of Northeast India‘s “Golden Silk.”
The rural haats which will host 320 grassroots will present crafts, handlooms, floriculture, and agriculture products, blending tradition with economic empowerment.
At the technical sessions business and policy experts will discuss sustainable development strategies tailored to the Northeast, crafting a roadmap for the region’s prosperity, while a special fashion show will spotlight eco-friendly designs by 20 top designers, blending traditional elements with contemporary fashion trends.
A commemorative postage stamp will be released to mark the occasion.