The phenomenal success of the Bharatiya Vyapar Mahotsav, organized by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) from August 12–15 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, has provided a major marketplace and promotional platform for Indian products across the country. This year, the festival of Raksha Bandhan is not only a symbol of the sacred bond between brothers and sisters but has also emerged as a celebration of Atmanirbhar Bharat, growing confidence in indigenous products, and national pride. Markets across the country are witnessing an overwhelming demand for Swadeshi rakhis, while distinctive rakhis crafted in different states have become a major attraction for consumers.

CAIT Secretary General and Member of Parliament from Chandni Chowk, Mr. Praveen Khandelwal, stated that business during Raksha Bandhan this year is expected to reach approximately ₹25,000 crore nationwide, nearly 45 percent higher than last year. When gifts, sweets, apparel, and other festive products are included, the total festive trade is expected to exceed ₹30,000 crore. Last year, Rakhi-related trade was estimated at around ₹17,000 crore, while in 2023 it stood at approximately ₹12,000 crore, beside sale of sweets, gifts and packing etc.

Mr. Khandelwal said that this remarkable growth reflects consumers’ increasing trust in Indian products and the success of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vocal for Local,” “Local for Global,” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat.”

He further stated that along with traditional rakhis, there is a strong demand this year for special theme-based rakhis inspired by Prime Minister Modi’s flagship initiatives, national achievements, and the vision of a developed India. Among the most popular are “Viksit Bharat Rakhi,” “Modi Guarantee Rakhi,” “BrahMos Rakhi,” “Atmanirbhar Bharat Rakhi,” “Vocal for Local Rakhi,” “Bharat Gaurav Rakhi,” “Nari Vandan Rakhi,” “Lakhpati Didi Rakhi,” “Namami Gange Rakhi,” “Rashtra Raksha Sutra Rakhi,” and “Amrit Kaal Rakhi.”

CAIT National President Mr. B.C. Bhartia said that through these rakhis, sisters are not merely tying a sacred thread but are also expressing their commitment to nation-building, women’s empowerment, the Swadeshi movement, environmental conservation, and national security. Special enthusiasm has been witnessed among youth and children for the “BrahMos Rakhi,” “Rashtra Raksha Sutra Rakhi,” and “Viksit Bharat Rakhi.”

Mr. Bhartia added that rakhis promoting the art, culture, and local products of different regions are also receiving tremendous appreciation. These include Khadi Rakhis from Nagpur, Sanganeri Art Rakhis from Jaipur, Seed Rakhis from Pune, Tea Leaf Rakhis from Assam, Jute Rakhis from Kolkata, Silk Rakhis from Mumbai, Madhubani Rakhis from Bihar, Flower Rakhis from Bengaluru, and many other indigenous varieties that are becoming symbols of Indian craftsmanship and local entrepreneurship.

CAIT National Chairman Mr. Brijmohan Agrawal appealed to traders and consumers across the country to prioritize Indian products during Raksha Bandhan and all upcoming festivals, thereby strengthening the campaign of “Adopt Swadeshi – Strengthen India.” He said that India’s economy, cottage industries, handicrafts, and small enterprises are receiving renewed momentum, reinforcing CAIT’s resolve of “Made in India – Embraced by the World.”

Markets across the country have once again witnessed zero demand for Chinese rakhis this year. Traders and consumers alike have fully embraced indigenous products, and only Indian-made rakhis are available in the markets.

Mr. Khandelwal further announced that CAIT will organize special Swadeshi fairs in various cities across the country, providing women entrepreneurs, self-help groups, and local artisans with platforms to market and sell their handmade rakhis and other products.

He noted that Khadi Rakhis from Nagpur, Sanganeri Art Rakhis from Jaipur, Seed Rakhis from Pune, Jute Rakhis from Kolkata, Bamboo Rakhis crafted by tribal artisans, Tea Leaf Rakhis from Assam, Silk Rakhis from Mumbai, and Pearl Rakhis from Kanpur are witnessing strong sales, creating significant market opportunities for small artisans and handicraft workers.

CAIT believes that the growing preference for indigenous products and the success of the “Vocal for Local” movement will generate substantial economic benefits for Indian artisans, women entrepreneurs, small industries, and local traders during this Raksha Bandhan season.

“Today, a Swadeshi Rakhi is not merely a product; it has become a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Viksit Bharat, and national pride,” said Mr. Khandelwal