The Saras Ajeevika Food Festival 2025 attracted a large gathering of food and handicraft lovers with huge enthusiasm on its final day today. The food festival, which began on the 29th of last month, was organized by the Union Ministry of Rural Development under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission.  The festival stood as a shining showcase of women’s empowerment.

On the last day of the Saras Ajeevika Food Festival 2025, more than 500 dishes from 25 states gave visitors a vibrant and flavourful tour of India’s culinary heritage. Nearly 300 Lakhpati Didis and women from Self-Help Groups arrived from across the country to present their best regional specialities at Delhi’s Sunder Nursery.

Union Minister for Rural Development, Shivraj Singh Chouhan said that the festival represented true Women Empowerment by showcasing how women from self-help groups are earning with dignity, strengthening their families, and contributing to the nation’s progress. He greeted the Lakhpati Didis and appreciated them for presenting rich flavours rooted in India’s rural traditions and highlighted their growing confidence as entrepreneurs.

Sita Devi, an exhibitor from Purnea, Bihar praised the government’s support and told Akashvani News that she gained valuable experience and financial benefit at the festival.

With over 60 colourful stalls, 50 sizzling live food counters and 12 showcasing natural food products, the Saras Food Festival has been more than a festival; it’s a cultural confluence where stories simmer alongside spices.