October 22, 2025
NEW DELHI – This year’s Diwali celebrations have illuminated more than just homes—they have ignited unprecedented economic activity across India, marking a historic milestone in the country’s retail sector. According to a comprehensive nationwide survey conducted by the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) and highlighted by the Prime Minister’s Office Research & Trade Development Society, India recorded an extraordinary Rs 5.40 lakh crore in goods and Rs 65,000 crore in services traded during the Diwali 2025 season. This represents the highest festive turnover ever witnessed in Indian retail history.
The survey, which covered 60 major markets and thousands of traders from Tier 1, 2, and 3 cities, validates the impact of visionary leadership under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Prime Minister’s persistent advocacy for Swadeshi (self-reliance), Vocal for Local, and rational GST reforms has translated into tangible economic growth and renewed market confidence.
Compared to last year’s Rs 4.25 lakh crore festive sales, the 2025 Diwali trade marked a remarkable 25 percent increase—a clear indication of stronger consumer sentiment, enhanced purchasing power, and the positive effects of GST rate reductions on key categories such as garments, footwear, confectionery, and home décor.
The data also reveals a significant shift in consumer preference, with 87 percent of buyers opting for Indian-made goods over imports. Sales of Chinese products experienced a notable decline across cities, while Indian manufacturers enjoyed an average 25 percent growth in sales compared to 2024. This underscores that the Swadeshi movement has evolved from an emotional appeal into a potent economic driver fueling the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).
The CAIT report highlights the broader economic impact of this trade boom, with nearly 50 lakh temporary jobs created in sectors such as logistics, packaging, transportation, hospitality, and delivery services. This surge has provided a robust boost to small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Notably, rural and semi-urban India contributed about 28 percent of total sales, demonstrating truly inclusive and pan-Indian consumption growth.
Trader Confidence Index rose to 8.6 from 7.8 last year, while the Consumer Confidence Index increased to 8.4, reflecting widespread optimism about India’s retail economy. These indices affirm the success of government policies aimed at encouraging entrepreneurship, simplifying regulatory compliance, and sustaining consumption beyond the festive season.
The record-breaking Diwali trade is more than just impressive numbers; it stands as a testament to the resilience of India’s retail sector and the trust placed by millions of small traders who form the backbone of the nation’s economy. It also reinforces the vision that under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India’s festivals are transforming into celebrations of growth—seamlessly blending tradition with economic transformation.
This Diwali truly symbolizes the strength and spirit of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, where Swadeshi values, progressive tax reforms, and public confidence have together powered India’s largest-ever festival of prosperity.