Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the six-day Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan. The inaugural event was also graced by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary. Members of SHGs, FPOs, Cooperatives, artisans, GI registered users, from across the country were present during the inaugural event. Prime minister also interacted with the artisans during his visit to the exhibition area which is being held as part of the Mahotsav.
The event is being is being organised by NABARD, under the aegis of the Department of Financial Services (DFS), Government of India. The six-day event, being held from January 4 to 9, 2025, celebrates the indomitable spirit of rural India and showcases its rich cultural heritage, entrepreneurship, and innovation. With the theme “Building a Resilient Rural India for a Viksit Bharat 2047” and the motto ("When villages grow, the nation grows"), the event aims to promote self-reliance, sustainable growth, and financial inclusion.
Addressing an audience representing every corner of the country, PM Modi emphasised the government’s unwavering commitment to transforming rural India into vibrant centres of growth and opportunity. The Prime Minister also acknowledged NABARD’s pivotal role in promoting rural development, particularly through self-help groups and Kisan Credit Cards and formation of more Famer Producer Organisations. He also urged for the establishment of additional cooperatives similar to Amul to enhance rural economies and emphasized the significance of branding and packaging for Geographical Indications (GI) products.
The inaugural day featured a notable panel discussion on “GI Products: Cultural Pride to Prosperity.” Panellists, including Prof. Abhijit Das and Padma Shri awardee Dr. Rajani Kant, highlighted the potential of GI products in fostering rural prosperity. Discussions ranged from creating awareness about India’s rich legacy to tapping international markets through global exhibitions. Artisan Sohit Kumar Prajapati shared a transformative success story, revealing how GI recognition for Nizamabad’s black pottery elevated his SHG group’s annual turnover to Rs 92 crore.
The second day commenced with Shaji KV, Chairman of NABARD, interacting with the media. He emphasised the pivotal role of rural India in driving the nation’s economic growth. He remarked, “This event, jointly organized by the Department of Financial Services Govt. of India and NABARD, highlights the remarkable achievements of rural India over the past decade. From enhanced infrastructure under Prime Minister Gram Sadak Yojna to electrification, digital connectivity, and GI tagging of rural products, we are witnessing a convergence of rural and urban growth. The demand growth in rural areas now rivals urban areas, underscoring the need to augment rural development and leverage these advancements for a stronger, inclusive economy.”
The second day unfolded with masterclasses and workshops by industry experts, focusing on sustainable rural growth and innovation. Delegates explored the expansive exhibition featuring authentic rural products, including textiles, handicrafts, and agro-products, celebrating craftsmanship across India. The cultural evening mesmerised attendees with vibrant performances showcasing India’s artistic traditions, with a special spotlight on the Northeast region.
Cultural Extravaganza: HARVEST - Rhythms of the Earth
‘HARVEST: Rhythms of the Earth’ is a cultural extravaganza that forms an integral part of the Grameen Bharat Mahotsav, organised by NABARD under the aegis of the Department of Financial Services. Conceptualized by Seher, this five-day festival, held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, from January 4-8, 2025, celebrates the seamless blend of India’s rural and urban artistry. Through a vibrant showcase of music and dance traditions, it spans the length and breadth of the country. Iconic art forms such as Bihu, Odissi, Carnatic Kritis, and Sufiyana Qawwali come alive alongside contemporary performances by popular folk-rock bands like The Raghu Dixit Project, offering a harmonious fusion of tradition and modernity.
A Platform for Collaborative Growth
Grameen Bharat Mahotsav 2025 is a confluence of government officials, thought leaders, rural entrepreneurs, and artisans collaborating to shape a roadmap for rural transformation. With over 200 registered GI products and initiatives to unlock their commercial potential, the Mahotsav aligns with India’s vision for a developed nation by 2047.
Upcoming Highlights
The event’s upcoming days promise further enriching sessions on financial inclusion, rural entrepreneurship, and innovation. Visitors can anticipate cultural evenings, networking opportunities, and insightful discussions led by eminent experts.
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