The growing number of shoppers, crowded stores and renewed purchasing enthusiasm have brought smiles back to traders (AI Image)
New Delhi: Delhi's markets are witnessing a fresh wave of activity ahead of Diwali, bringing much-needed relief to traders after more than a month of sluggish business due to protests, demonstrations and political activities. The growing number of shoppers, crowded stores and renewed purchasing enthusiasm have brought smiles back to traders, who are now hopeful that the festive season will help recover their previous business losses.
Praveen Khandelwal, National Secretary General of the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and Chandni Chowk MP, said repeated disruptions caused by political activities and disturbances in daily life over the past month had affected Delhi's trading community. Reduced customer footfall and fewer visitors from outside the city had further impacted business.
However, the return of shoppers ahead of Diwali has raised hopes of a strong recovery in the retail sector.
According to Khandelwal, the festive shopping season is expected to gain momentum with Dhanteras on November 6, Chhoti Diwali on November 7, Diwali on November 8, Govardhan Puja on November 9 and Bhai Dooj on November 10.
The business momentum is expected to continue through Chhath Puja, Tulsi Vivah and Guru Nanak Jayanti. Wedding celebrations, Christmas and New Year festivities are also likely to create additional opportunities for traders in the coming months.
CAIT has estimated that Diwali-related business across the country could exceed ₹7 lakh crore, while Delhi alone is expected to record trade worth more than ₹1 lakh crore.
Khandelwal also highlighted the growing response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's appeal to promote indigenous products. Demand for locally manufactured household goods, electronics, clothing, decorative items and gifts is reportedly increasing in the markets.
He said this trend would provide support to small retailers, artisans and entrepreneurs. Expressing confidence in the upcoming festive and wedding seasons, Khandelwal said the coming months could give Delhi's trading sector fresh momentum and help it overcome the recent slowdown.
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