How Women SHGs Are Preparing to Benefit from the Rs 27,000-Crore Nashik Simhastha Kumbh Economy
Nashik, 6th August 2026: Taking forward the ANEK (Accelerating Nano Enterprises through Kumbh) initiative, the Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela Authority (NTKMA), in partnership with deAsra Foundation, conducted the first capacity-building session for women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under UMED, Maharashtra’s State Rural Livelihoods Mission, on August 4. The initiative aims to prepare local entrepreneurs, women-led enterprises, and grassroots businesses to benefit from the economic opportunities expected during Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027, which is projected to generate nearly ₹27,000 crore in economic activity.
The orientation programme focused on helping SHG members strengthen and expand their businesses well ahead of the Kumbh. Participants received guidance on using social media to promote their businesses, improving financial preparedness, and identifying emerging business opportunities linked to the Kumbh economy.
The programme began with introductory remarks by Swapnil Shirke from UMED, who highlighted the importance of preparing women entrepreneurs to maximise the opportunities presented by the once-in-twelve-years event. Vaishali Aparajit from deAsra Foundation outlined the roadmap for the two-year ANEK initiative and explained the long-term support that will be provided to participating entrepreneurs.
Delivering a session on digital business promotion, Anupam Kulkarni of Setu Advertisement explained how entrepreneurs can effectively leverage social media platforms to increase their visibility and attract customers. Ketaki Vispute, an officer from Cosmos Bank, briefed participants on banking services and financial schemes that could support enterprise growth. Anup Khandelwal shared insights into the emerging business opportunities expected during Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027 and encouraged participants to prepare their enterprises in advance.
The programme was supported by Rishabh Vora and Yash More from Kumbhathon, Nashik. UMED officials, including Bandu Kasar, Sisodiya, and Vijaya Shirsath, were also present.
The ANEK initiative will continue with structured capacity-building programmes covering business planning, digital marketing, financial management, business registration, branding, market linkages, and expert mentoring. These initiatives aim to enable local entrepreneurs, Self-Help Groups, and street vendors to actively participate in and benefit from the economic opportunities created by Simhastha Kumbh Mela 2027.
