Murmu made the remarks while inaugurating the National Saras Mela 2026. The fair brings together women from across the country to showcase and sell products made by rural artisans and self-help groups.

After inaugurating the event, the President visited various stalls and interacted with women from the DWCRA (Development of Women and Children in Rural Areas) groups. She enquired about the special features of their products and viewed a range of natural products, handloom items and handicrafts. She also purchased a saree from one of the stalls and made the payment digitally

Addressing the gathering, Murmu stressed the need to further strengthen women’s empowerment. She noted that women had earlier faced economic dependence and were largely responsible for managing households, often relying on others even for small needs.

"Women are self-reliant and are supporting others. Women's income contributes to the economic prosperity of the country," she said. The participation of women from different parts of the country at the fair reflected their enthusiasm and efforts to promote their products, she added. Murmu also observed that the smiles on the participants’ faces showed their satisfaction.

The President reiterated that women’s economic participation would contribute to the country’s overall development and said the goal of a developed India could be achieved before 2047.

Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice (Retd) Abdul Nazeer, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Union Ministers Shivraj Singh Chouhan and K Rammohan Naidu attended the programme.

Later in the afternoon, Murmu had lunch with women members of self-help groups. She subsequently left for Vijayawada airport and departed for New Delhi. Police had made extensive security arrangements during her visit.