Mumbai, 16 February 2026 – Maharashtra today witnessed the convergence of senior government dignitaries, consumer commission members, industry leaders and women entrepreneurs at Mahavikas 2026, organised by the Indian Direct Selling Association in collaboration with the Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection, Government of Maharashtra, at the Y.B. Chavan Centre. The conference focused on strengthening consumer awareness, reinforcing ethical business practices and promoting women’s entrepreneurship in the direct selling sector.
India’s direct selling industry continues to show steady growth. As per IDSA’s Annual Survey 2023–24, the sector recorded total sales of ₹22,142 crore in FY 2023–24, a 4.04 percent rise over the previous year, and currently supports over 88 lakh direct sellers across the country, including close to 39 lakh women. Maharashtra has emerged as the largest contributor to this growth, with ₹2,879 crore in sales and a 13 percent share of the national market. Around 9.5 lakh active direct sellers in the state earn their livelihoods through the sector, placing Maharashtra at the forefront of both industry expansion and accountability.
The conference featured focused deliberations on regulatory frameworks, grievance redressal mechanisms and responsible business conduct. A key session titled “Smart Consumers, Strong Markets” offered practical guidance on evaluating direct selling platforms and understanding consumer protection measures. Another session, “Empowering Women through Entrepreneurship,” shared journeys of women entrepreneurs building sustainable livelihoods across communities. The programme concluded with Aadya (Season 9), recognising women entrepreneurs for their achievements.
Shri Anil Diggikar, Additional Chief Secretary, Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Protection, Maharashtra, added, “Rules only make a difference when they work on the ground. Consumers should know their rights, and companies must take responsibility for their actions. When that balance is in place, the market becomes safer and more credible for everyone. It also creates a stronger foundation for women entrepreneurs, who thrive when the system around them is predictable, supportive and fair.”
Ms. Aprajita Sarcar, Vice Chairperson, Indian Direct Selling Association, said, “Real growth is not just about getting bigger, it is about being trusted. That trust comes from how honestly businesses operate and how responsibly they treat consumers. When the industry gets this right, it earns long-term credibility and stability. Women, in particular, stand to gain when the ecosystem is fair and transparent, because it gives them the confidence to step into entrepreneurship and build reliable sources of income with the right support around them.”
Mahavikas 2026 concluded with a joint commitment to strengthen consumer awareness, ethical practices and women’s entrepreneurship, reinforcing that the future of direct selling in Maharashtra will be shaped not just by growth, but by trust and transparency.
