The 11th International Forest Fair, organised on the theme “Prosperous Forests, Happy People,” concluded on Tuesday with strong commercial outcomes and large public participation. Over seven days, the fair generated ₹2.5 crore in sales of herbal and forest products, while buyer–seller meets resulted in business deals worth ₹5 crore, officials said.
The closing ceremony was attended by Tribal Affairs Minister Dr. Kunwar Vijay Shah and Minister of State for Forest and Environment Shri Dilip Ahirwar.
Direct Market Access for Forest Communities
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Shah said forest fairs and structured buyer–seller meets are helping forest dwellers sell their produce directly, protecting them from middlemen and ensuring fair returns. He said the initiative reflects the spirit of the fair’s core theme and strengthens the economic self-reliance of tribal communities.
Dr. Shah also highlighted that Madhya Pradesh is the first state to provide MSP on Shree Anna (millets) along with an additional incentive of ₹1,000, under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, further supporting forest-based livelihoods.
Ayurveda Promotion and Next Fair in Ujjain
Minister of State Shri Dilip Ahirwar said the fair has become a platform not only for trade in forest produce but also for promoting Ayurveda and traditional medicine. He announced that the next Forest Fair will be organised in Ujjain on the occasion of Mahashivratri, following directions from the Chief Minister.
Massive Footfall and Key Attractions
On the final day alone, visitors made brisk purchases of herbs and forest products. Nearly three lakh visitors attended the fair over seven days. A major highlight was the free OPD run by Ayurvedic doctors and traditional Nadi Vaidyas, where thousands received consultations.
The fair featured 350 stalls, including 102 stalls by government institutions, showcasing herbal recipes, medicinal plants, forest produce and value-added products. Special exhibitions were also organised, with a dinosaur exhibition emerging as a major attraction for children.
Workshops and International Participation
On the sixth day, a workshop of Ayurvedic doctors and traditional practitioners was held, with participation from across India as well as Nepal and Bhutan, reinforcing the fair’s international character.
During the valedictory function, participating institutions were awarded for outstanding performance in different categories. Ayurvedic doctors and traditional healers who provided free consultations were also felicitated.
