CORESPONDENT
ITANAGAR: The Arunachal SARAS Fair, organised by the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM), concluded on a highly successful note on Wednesday, at the D K Convention Centre. Held from January 13 to 22, the fair showcased an impressive array of handcrafted and locally sourced products created by self-help group (SHG) members from Arunachal Pradesh and other participating states. The fair was formally inaugurated on January 13, by Chief Minister Pema Khandu in the presence of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj minister Ojing Tasing and state chief secretary and others.
SHG participants from various districts of the state joined hands with artisans from Meghalaya, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, Assam, and Jammu & Kashmir to make the event a true celebration of India’s rich rural heritage and craftsmanship.
The fair recorded a remarkable total sales figure of Rs 1.3 crore, directly benefiting hundreds of SHG members, an official release informed here on Thursday.
The overwhelming response from visitors was a testament to the high-quality and unique products on display. Artisans from other states expressed their gratitude for the warm reception and robust demand for their goods, with many restocking their products multiple times to meet customer needs. The fair is more than just a marketplace, it is a platform that empowers rural artisans by providing them with direct access to customers, opportunities for learning, and exposure to diverse markets.
For the SHG members, participation in the fair translates into economic upliftment, skill enhancement, and a boost in confidence. The event fosters cross-cultural exchange, enabling SHG members to learn from their peers and broaden their perspectives.
During the closing ceremony, Rural Development & Panchayati Raj secretary Dr Sonal Swarop, highlighted the transformative impact of the fair on rural SHGs in the state.
Dr Swarop also expressed gratitude to the enthusiastic SHG participants and encouraged them to strive for greater achievements in the future.
“This year’s SARAS fair has not only showcased the talents of our SHG members but also highlighted the growing appreciation for handcrafted, sustainable products. The sales figures speak volumes about the potential of our rural artisans and the support they receive from the public,” said a representative from ArSRLM.
The fair provided SHG members with a rare opportunity to network with buyers, gain valuable insights into market trends, and receive direct feedback from customers.
Also Read: Arunachal Pradesh CM Inaugurates SARAS Fair To Empower Rural Artisans
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