Udaipur to Host “Van Mela–2026” for the First Time

Udaipur: For the first time in the City of Lakes, the Forest Department is organizing a grand event titled **“Van Mela Udaipur–2026.”** The two-day forest fair will be held on **January 17 and 18, 2026**, at the historic **Sajjangarh, Udaipur**. The objective of the fair is to familiarize the general public with the rich biodiversity of the Udaipur division, forest produce, and traditional tribal knowledge.

### Strong Platform for ‘Vocal for Local’

Divisional Chief Conservator of Forests **Mr. Sunil Chidri** informed that the event is dedicated to the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s **‘Vocal for Local’** campaign. Under this initiative, medicinal, organic, and completely natural forest products made from important local plant species will be showcased, promoted, and marketed. Information on processing, value addition, and marketing of forest produce will also be shared, creating new livelihood opportunities for local communities.

### Unique Regional Products Under ‘Panch Gaurav’

In line with the vision of the Hon’ble Chief Minister, selected unique and preferred products from all districts of the Udaipur division will be displayed under the **‘Panch Gaurav’** concept. In addition, important forest products from various voluntary organizations and reputed institutions such as the **Bombay Natural History Society** and **World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)** will also be exhibited and sold.

### Special Stalls on Forest and Wildlife Conservation

Along with forest produce, the fair will feature special stalls showcasing local and traditional products, books on forest and wildlife conservation, and materials based on the traditional knowledge of tribal communities. These stalls aim to enhance public awareness about environmental conservation.

### Confluence of Nature, Tradition, and Progress

“**Van Mela Udaipur–2026**” is not merely an exhibition of forest products; it is a significant initiative toward nature conservation, preservation of tribal culture, and strengthening the local economy. Mr. Chidri has appealed to city residents, rural communities, and tourists from across the country and abroad to visit this unique forest fair, experience the rich biodiversity of the Udaipur division, and support forest products developed using the centuries-old traditional knowledge of local tribal communities.