Ranchi, September 11, 2026: Jharkhand Rural Development Minister Deepika Pandey Singh inaugurated the sixth edition of the ‘Rural India Mahotsav–Classic Expo 2026’ organised by NABARD in Ranchi on Friday. She visited various stalls at the expo and interacted with weavers, artisans and women’s groups to learn about their products and encourage their efforts.
The expo features traditional products, handloom, art and craft and other rural products brought by weavers, artisans and women’s groups from across the country. Jharkhand’s rich silk sarees and handicraft products are among the major attractions.
Speaking on the occasion, Deepika Pandey Singh said that inclusive development cannot be achieved without strengthening the rural economy. She said events such as the Rural India Mahotsav provide rural producers with recognition and access to markets while creating opportunities for weavers, artisans and women’s groups to receive fair value for their products.
The minister highlighted the display of quality and GI-tagged products at the expo, saying this gives buyers greater confidence in product quality. At the same time, rural producers get an opportunity to connect directly with larger markets and understand the actual market value of their products.
She said that additional sources of income alongside agriculture can play an important role in strengthening rural households financially. Such opportunities can contribute to better living standards as well as improved access to education and healthcare.
The minister said the Rural India Mahotsav–Classic Expo is not merely an exhibition but also an important platform for connecting rural producers with larger markets through a Buyers-Sellers Meet. She stressed that a fair share of the profits generated from rural products should reach the artisans and weavers whose hard work goes into making them.
Deepika Pandey Singh also emphasised the need for better credit linkages and banking facilities for rural entrepreneurs, artisans and women’s groups. She said rural enterprises, like larger businesses, need adequate and accessible financial support to grow.
She added that the Jharkhand Rural Development Department and JSLPS are continuously working to connect women’s groups with self-employment, training, markets and financial opportunities.
The minister said providing opportunities for Jharkhand’s rural talent, women entrepreneurs and local products to reach national and international markets remains one of the state government’s priorities.
