The grand inauguration of “Diwali Haat 2025 – Illuminating the Path of Progress through Tradition,” supported by NABARD’s New Delhi Regional Office andorganized by Ambapali Multi State Cooperative Societies in collaboration with, was held at Emporia Complex, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Connaught Place. This ten-day festival, running from 15 to 25 October 2025, features participation from over 100 artisans, self-help groups, and farmer producer organizations from 20 States across India.
The inauguration of the event was graced by Sh. Hemant Kumar, IAS Special Development Commissioner (Dev), GNCTD, Sh. Lokesh Kumar Chief General Manager, EXIM Bank, Sh. Rajesh Kumar, GM & Convenor SLBC, Sh. Jiji Mammen Executive Director & CEO, SaDhan and Shri Nabin Kumar Roy, General Manager/OIC NABARD New Delhi Regional Office.
During the inauguration, Shri Hemant Kumar appreciated the efforts of NABARD in supporting these rural artisans and farmers and exhorted that this exhibition is a living tapestry of India’s heritage—50 stalls from 15 states showcasing the brilliance of our artisans. Each creation here is not just a product, but a story of tradition, skill, and pride.
Shri Nabin Kumar Roysaid, “Through this initiative, we are working to strengthen the rural economy and support the social and economic upliftment of artisans. When artisans and farmer shine, India shines. This Haat not only preserves tradition but also provides a platform for empowerment for rural youth and craftsmen.”
The objective of this exhibition is to showcase India’s rich cultural heritage, traditional craftsmanship, and Geographical Indication (GI) products on a single platform. On the auspicious occasion of Diwali, this initiative aims to bring light into the lives of rural artisans who brighten homes with their art, color, and traditions.
On the second day of the event, Prof. Ram Singh, Director Delhi School of Economics and Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) Member and Smt. Suparna Tandon, CEO NPS Trust graced the event. The dignitaries interacted with the artisans and were appreciative of the rich tradition and cultural diversity being displayed through the exhibition.
Visitors to the Diwali Haat will have the opportunity to explore and purchase a variety of products including more than 20 GI products, organic millets, jaggery, desi vegan ghee, spices, saffron, dry fruits, as well as handcrafted Pashmina, Maheshwari and Chanderi sarees, Muga silk, zari work, pebble art and Aipen painting and many more. Each stall tells the story of India’s tradition, sustainability, and age-old artistry.
Cultural Evenings are being organized during the event, featuring folk art and dance performances from various states. The presence of senior officials from central and state governments, bank representatives, artisans, distinguished guests, and the public added to the grandeur of the celebration.
NABARD’s Diwali Haat 2025 is seen not just as a commercial platform but as a bright initiative toward rural empowerment in the direction of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).
