Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal on Tuesday called on the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) to organise the “biggest-ever Swadeshi Mela” in the national capital in partnership with the India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), positioning the event as a global showcase of India’s indigenous trade and innovation.
Addressing CAIT’s national trade leaders conference, attended by more than 200 top traders from 28 states, Goyal said the mega exhibition should reflect India’s manufacturing strength and support Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of promoting home-grown enterprises on the world stage.
“The traders of India are the backbone of the economy and one of its strongest growth pillars,” he said, praising CAIT for its continued role in shaping India’s retail landscape.
The minister highlighted priority areas for the trading community, including wider access to skill-development initiatives, digital empowerment, greater support for women entrepreneurs, and improved cyber-security systems to counter online fraud. He also encouraged partnerships with Swadeshi Jagran Manch, Laghu Udyog Bharti and other trade bodies to expand Swadeshi Melas nationwide and promote the “vocal for local” movement.
Goyal further offered CAIT the opportunity to take over and run the Skill Development Centre in his North Mumbai constituency to accelerate training programmes for traders.
Speaking at the event, Chandni Chowk MP and CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal said traders have been key beneficiaries of the government’s push towards “Ease of Doing Business”, modern infrastructure, and digital tools — unlocking new avenues of growth.
Reaffirming CAIT’s commitment to protecting business interests and advocating policy reforms, Khandelwal said the body will continue efforts to build a more organised and globally competitive retail ecosystem.
CAIT National President B.C. Bhartia called for strengthening the federation’s base across the country and empowering trader networks at the grassroots level. He outlined future priorities including capacity building, digital enablement, and national-level campaigns to advance trade reforms.
(IANS)