New Delhi: The Indian economy is gearing up for a massive festive booster, with nationwide retail trade expected to cross a staggering ₹7 lakh crore during the period between Navratri and Diwali. According to preliminary estimates, this year’s festive business will register a robust 15 to 18 per cent growth compared to the ₹6.05 lakh crore record turnover achieved during the same period last year.
The projections, released by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT), are based on extensive feedback from major trade associations, consumer demand trends, and the increasing activity in rural and semi-urban markets. Last year’s festive trade comprised roughly ₹5.40 lakh crore in goods and ₹65,000 crore in the service sector. This year, expanding commercial activities are expected to push the total well beyond the ₹7 lakh crore mark.
A sector-wise breakdown of the anticipated trade reveals that the FMCG and grocery sector is expected to lead with a 12 per cent share of the total business. This is closely followed by gold, silver, and jewellery at 10 per cent, and electronics and electricals at 8 per cent. Other major contributors include consumer durables, readymade garments, and gift items, which are expected to capture 7 per cent each. Home decor, furniture, and traditional sweets will account for 5 per cent each, while textiles, puja materials, and dry fruits make up the remaining share.
Highlighting the evolving nature of the festive economy, CAIT Secretary General Praveen Khandelwal stated that the service sector will play an increasingly vital role this year. Driven by heightened demand in logistics, e-commerce delivery, hospitality, catering, and event management, the service sector is projected to see a 20 to 25 per cent jump. Consequently, service-based festive trade is estimated to touch anywhere between ₹80,000 crore and ₹1 lakh crore.
The surge in economic activity is heavily fueled by nationwide cultural events, including Ramlila stage shows, Durga Puja pandals, Garba nights, and Diwali melas. These community gatherings generate immense localized demand for lighting, floral decorations, catering, and security services, ensuring that the financial benefits of the festive season extend far beyond traditional retail shops and into the broader service ecosystem.