by Suman Gupta
Mumbai: Mahalaxmi Saras 2026, which commenced on May 2, 2026, has been receiving an overwhelming response from citizens. Within just seven days, the exhibition has recorded business transactions worth nearly ₹15 crore. This information was shared by Maharashtra State Rural Livelihood COO Nilesh Sagar, Mission CEO Nikhil Oswal and during an interaction with the media.
Financial Assistance of Up to ₹1.5 Lakh for Women Entrepreneurs
COO Nilesh Sagar informed that women are provided business capital through the Community Investment Fund. Earlier, financial assistance of up to ₹60,000 was provided, which has now been increased to ₹1.5 lakh. Decisions are taken at the group level based on business requirements, without demanding any collateral such as land or gold.
Over 71 Lakh Women Connected Through the Mission, Speaking on the occasion, *Nikhil Oswal said* that the mission, launched by the Central Government in 2011, was aimed at empowering rural women socially and economically. Since 2018, the initiative has expanded across Maharashtra with the formation of women self-help groups in villages, bringing together at least ten women from each village.
He stated that Maharashtra has so far formed over 6.07 lakh women self-help groups, involving more than 71 lakh women. The mission has successfully contributed to nearly 55 percent economic empowerment in rural areas. Special focus has also been given to single women, transgender persons, differently-abled individuals, and socially disadvantaged communities.
He further stated that not only self-help groups but individual women are also being provided loans according to their needs. Financial assistance is extended after considering household conditions, business requirements, and economic circumstances. This initiative has significantly reduced dependence on informal moneylending systems and high-interest borrowing practices in rural areas.
“Umed Mart” Taking Women’s Products to Global Markets
Under the Umed Mission, the online platform “Umed Mart” is helping products made by women self-help groups reach global markets. Over the past two years, more than 4,200 products have been registered on the platform, while 1,000 new products have been added this year.
Women are also being provided special training in digital marketing and online sales. The mission has set a target of creating one lakh “Lakhpati Didis,” with plans to further increase the number by 50 percent. Large-scale opportunities are being created for women in entrepreneurship, marketing, and financial self-reliance.
535 Product Stalls and 80 Food Stalls Draw Visitors
This year’s Mahalaxmi Saras features 535 product stalls and 80 food stalls. Participants have been selected based on product quality, packaging, and innovation.
Significant opportunities have also been provided to emerging women entrepreneurs
To ensure visitor convenience, facilities such as free bus services, home delivery services, and special arrangements for differently-abled visitors have been introduced.
Business Expected to Reach ₹40 Crore
Earlier exhibitions held in Nagpur and Vashi recorded business worth ₹16 crore and ₹22 crore respectively. With ₹15 crore business already achieved within seven days in Mumbai, organisers are optimistic that Mahalaxmi Saras 2026 will cross ₹40 crore in total business this year.
