India’s Festive Season Boosts Economy
Celebrations and Economic Impact
The festive season in India has begun with major celebrations like Navratri, Ramleela, Garba, and Dandiya. These events are expected to generate over Rs 50,000 crore in business across the country, according to the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT). Delhi alone is projected to contribute over Rs 8,000 crore, as markets anticipate a surge in consumer activity.
Focus on Indian-Made Products
Praveen Khandelwal, CAIT Secretary General and Member of Parliament, highlighted the shift towards Indian-made products, with a decline in interest for Chinese goods. This change is attributed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Vocal for Local” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, which have enhanced the quality of Indian products.
Nationwide Celebrations and Employment
Over 1 lakh events, including religious, cultural, social, and spiritual programs, will be organized nationwide, providing employment to millions. Major celebrations like Navratri, Ramleela, Garba, and Dandiya will be followed by Vijayadashami, Durga Visarjan, Diwali, Chhath Puja, and more.
Delhi’s Festive Activities
Delhi will host over 1,000 Ramleelas and numerous Durga Puja pandals. Garba and Dandiya, traditionally celebrated in Gujarat, will see participation across the country, including in Delhi.
Increased Demand for Festive Goods
There is a significant increase in demand for traditional clothing, puja materials, sweets, and decorative items. Popular sweets include halwa, laddoo, and barfi, while fruits and flowers are also in high demand. Decorative items like diyas, torans, and rangoli materials are sought after for home and puja pandal decorations.
Business Opportunities
Tent houses and decoration companies are expected to benefit from the large-scale fairs and festival-related events, attracting millions of participants.
Doubts Revealed
Rs 50,000 Crore -: Rs 50,000 Crore is a large amount of money. In India, ‘Rs’ stands for Rupees, which is the currency used. Crore is a term used in India to denote ten million, so Rs 50,000 Crore means 500 billion Rupees.
Navratri -: Navratri is a Hindu festival that lasts for nine nights. It is celebrated with dance, music, and fasting, and honors the goddess Durga.
Ramleela -: Ramleela is a traditional play that depicts the life of Lord Rama, a Hindu god. It is performed during the festival of Dussehra and is very popular in India.
Garba and Dandiya -: Garba and Dandiya are traditional Indian dances. They are performed during the festival of Navratri, especially in the state of Gujarat.
Vocal for Local -: Vocal for Local is an initiative in India to encourage people to buy products made in India. It aims to support local businesses and boost the Indian economy.
Atmanirbhar Bharat -: Atmanirbhar Bharat means ‘Self-Reliant India.’ It is a campaign launched by the Indian government to make India more self-sufficient and reduce dependence on other countries.
Tent houses -: Tent houses are businesses that provide tents and other equipment for events. They are important for organizing large gatherings like weddings and festivals.
