Chhath Puja Celebrations Boost Local Trade Across India
The four-day Chhath Puja festival is being celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, particularly by communities from Bihar, Jharkhand, and Purvanchali people in various states. The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has predicted that the festival will generate around Rs 12,000 crores in trade nationwide. Approximately 150 million people are expected to participate in the rituals.
Chhath Puja in Delhi
Delhi, with its large Purvanchali population, is witnessing grand celebrations. Markets such as Chandni Chowk, Sadar Bazar, and others are bustling with people buying traditional Chhath Puja items. These include bamboo baskets, banana leaves, sugarcane, sweets, fruits, and vegetables like coconuts, apples, and bananas.
Impact on Local Economy
CAIT National President BC Bhartia highlighted that Chhath Puja is celebrated with fervor in states like Eastern Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, West Bengal, and more. The festival boosts local economies, with high demand for traditional attire and handmade items, benefiting local traders and small-scale industries.
Significance of Chhath Puja
CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal emphasized that Chhath Puja is a reflection of social unity and dedication, supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. The festival supports local artisans and craftspeople, creating employment and supporting cottage industries.
Doubts Revealed
Chhath Puja -: Chhath Puja is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun God and his wife Usha. It is mainly celebrated in the Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, as well as in Nepal. People pray for the well-being and prosperity of their family and friends.
Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) -: The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) is an organization that represents the interests of traders and small businesses in India. They work to promote trade and commerce and support policies that benefit traders.
Rs 12,000 crores -: Rs 12,000 crores is a large amount of money, equivalent to 120 billion rupees. It indicates the estimated value of trade generated during the Chhath Puja festival.
Vocal for Local -: ‘Vocal for Local’ is an initiative by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to encourage people to buy and support local products and businesses. It aims to boost the Indian economy by promoting locally made goods and creating jobs.
Purvanchali people -: Purvanchali people are those who come from the Purvanchal region, which includes parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh and western Bihar. They have a rich cultural heritage and celebrate festivals like Chhath Puja with great enthusiasm.
