Empowering Rural Women Through SARAS Aajeevika Mela
Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, recently graced the SARAS Aajeevika Mela at Kala Kendra, Jammu with his presence. This event not only showcases the talents of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) but also highlights their crucial role in empowering rural women and enhancing grassroots livelihoods.
During his visit, Minister Sharma commended the entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship of the SHG members. He emphasized the significance of initiatives like SARAS Aajeevika Mela in promoting inclusive development and women-led economic growth. According to him, empowering women through skill development and providing them with market access is essential for fostering a self-reliant and resilient economy.
The Mela, which features 81 stalls including traditional crafts, handloom products, and culinary delights prepared by rural women SHGs from across the country, serves as a vital platform for women entrepreneurs to reach wider markets and establish sustainable livelihoods.
Dr. Shubra Sharma, MD of JKRLM, and other senior officers of NRLM were also present at the event, further emphasizing the government’s commitment to supporting women’s economic empowerment.
Satish Sharma highlighted the importance of leveraging technology and digital platforms to enhance the reach of SHG products. He stressed that IT-enabled solutions can significantly contribute to expanding market access and increasing income generation for rural women.
The SARAS Aajeevika Mela, with participation from 18 States and Union Territories, as well as SHGs from all districts of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh UT, celebrates India’s diverse cultural heritage through live demonstrations of traditional crafts and culinary traditions. The event not only promotes traditional arts and crafts but also plays a crucial role in preserving India’s rich cultural diversity.
Live demonstrations of traditional crafts such as pottery, grass handicrafts, Basohli art, papier-mâché, and intricate embroidery have captured the interest of the public, drawing large crowds to the Mela. Additionally, the event serves as a platform to showcase India’s culinary traditions, offering visitors a vibrant Pan-India experience.
In conclusion, the SARAS Aajeevika Mela stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting women’s economic empowerment and fostering rural prosperity. Through initiatives like this, rural women are provided with opportunities to showcase their talents, access wider markets, and build sustainable livelihoods, ultimately contributing to the nation’s development and growth.
