Secretary, Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj (RD&PR), Mohammad Aijaz Asad, on Thursday inaugurated the 10 day SARAS Aajeevika Mela at Kala Kendra, Jammu. The Secretary described the event as a 'Mini Bharat' that celebrates the country's rich cultural diversity and the entrepreneurial spirit of rural women.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Aijaz Asad emphasised the significance of the event in highlighting the talent and resilience of rural women entrepreneurs. "Our country is a union of many cultures and today, you can see self help groups from 19 states of India displaying their products.
Along with cuisines, other cultural aspects are also being highlighted. A 'Mini Bharat' has come to Jammu today," maintained the Secretary. Being organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) under the Department of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, the SARAS Aajeevika Mela aims to provide a national platform for rural women artisans under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-NRLM (DAY-NRLM).
This year’s event is featuring 70 unique stalls showcasing handicrafts, handlooms, jewellery, pottery, metalwork, paintings and home décor besides a variety of traditional cuisines from across India. The Secretary inspected the stalls representing 19 states, along with those showcasing the unique crafts of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh UTs.
He interacted with the exhibitors, applauding their entrepreneurial spirit and innovation in rural enterprises. "The SARAS Mela is not just an exhibition; it is a learning platform for SHG women to witness new products and innovative ideas," he added.
He encouraged the visitors to attend the event and support rural women entrepreneurs by purchasing their handmade products, emphasising the importance of creating sustainable market linkages for SHGs. Highlighting the role of NRLM in empowering rural women, Aijaz Asad described it as not just a mission but a revolution, a silent revolution to uplift women. He noted the significant achievements of rural women entrepreneurs who, through NRLM support, have gained financial independence and developed sustainable businesses.
Among others the exhibition was attended by Mission Director J&K Rural Livelihoods Mission, Dr Shubhra Sharma; Director, Panchayati Raj, Sham Lal; Chief Executive Officer, IWMP, Rajnish Kumar; Chief Operating Officer, HIMAYAT, Rajneesh Gupta; Additional Mission Director JKRLM, Manpreet Kaur and State Project Managers JKRLM.