Gandhinagar: The Ahmedabad Shopping Festival (ASF) 2025-26 is set to take place from December 5, 2025, to January 16, 2026, with extensive planning underway by the State Government and Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation. This was finalized during a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mr. Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar.
Promoting Indigenous Products with a Global Appeal
One of the key highlights of this year’s festival is its emphasis on promoting indigenous products that resonate with global consumers. This aligns closely with Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s vision of “Vocal for Local,” encouraging the use and celebration of locally made goods driven by the efforts of India’s youth.
Read also: Navratri 2025: Gujarat CM Bhupendra Patel Joins Garba Celebrations Across East Ahmedabad
Expanding the Festival’s Reach and Theme-Based Markets
In the meeting, officials deliberated on strategies to further enhance the stature of ASF as the country’s largest shopping festival by creating various themed markets. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel provided valuable guidance on organizing the festival to attract diverse crowds by offering everything people need in one place.
The GMDC Grounds will host the festival with designated zones, including a special Wedding Destination Zone to cater to the needs of shoppers looking for wedding-related products and services.
Cultural Experiences and Facilities to Enrich the Festival
Alongside the shopping experience, the festival will feature traditional food stalls, heritage walks, and cultural performances to create a holistic experience for visitors. Special emphasis will be placed on attracting NRIs, NRGs, and foreign tourists to ensure inclusive participation.
To support visitors, enhanced facilities such as decorative lighting, free bus services to and from festival sites, ample parking, and medical emergency services will be provided. Suggestions from the Chief Minister to improve these amenities have been passed on to the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation.
Reflecting on Last Year’s Success and Planning Ahead
A presentation on the previous year’s festival showcased its massive success — with over 25 lakh visitors benefiting and participation from more than 5,000 shops representing various brands. The significant sales generated and positive feedback have laid a strong foundation for this year’s event.
The Chief Minister urged the advisory committee to prepare a comprehensive plan that meticulously covers all aspects of the festival to maintain momentum for the ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative and elevate the festival’s overall experience.
Participation of Senior Officials
The high-level meeting saw participation from key government officials including State Minister for Cooperation and Industries Mr. Jagdish Vishwakarma, Chief Secretary Mr. Pankaj Joshi, Principal Advisor to Chief Minister Dr. Hasmukh Adhia, Finance Principal Secretary Mr. Dr. T. Natarajan, GST Commissioner Mr. Rajeev Topno, Urban Development Principal Secretary Mr. Thennarasan, Ahmedabad Municipal Commissioner Mr. Banchhanidhi Pani, and other senior secretaries.
Tourism Secretary Dr. Rajender Kumar, Commissioner of Cultural Activities Mr. Alok Pandey, Director of Municipal Administration Ms. Remya Mohan, and several senior officers also contributed to the detailed planning discussions.
