Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo inaugurated the second edition of SARAS Aajeevika Mela, an 11-day extravaganza celebrating the ingenuity and resilience of rural women entrepreneurs. Organized by the Jammu & Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) under the Department of Rural Development & Panchayti Raj, the event showcases a diverse array of art, craft, culture, and cuisine, embodying the ethos of ‘vocal for local.’
Accompanied by Secretary of Rural Development Department and Panchayati Raj, Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary, and other dignitaries, Chief Secretary Dulloo underscored the significance of the exhibition as a platform for rural women from across the country, including Jammu and Kashmir, to exhibit and market their products. He emphasized the importance of providing broader exposure and support to ensure the self-reliance of rural women.
Chief Secretary Dulloo personally inspected stalls from 15 states, engaging with exhibitors to understand the uniqueness of their offerings and commending their entrepreneurial spirit.
Later, he toured the food stalls, sampling traditional delicacies from various states alongside authentic cuisines from Jammu & Kashmir, promoting cultural exchange and economic empowerment.
Featuring over 220 rural women from across 15 states, SARAS Aajeevika Mela provides a platform for self-help group women artisans to exhibit their craftsmanship, artistry, and traditional skills.
With 60 unique stalls, including 40 from outside Jammu and Kashmir, the event showcases a fusion of products from different regions of India, from textiles and pottery to woodwork and paintings. Traditional music and dance performances celebrate the cultural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.
The main objective of the Mela is to create a market for rural women to sell their products directly to customers, enhancing their marketing abilities and financial independence. Supported by the JKRLM, self-help group members manage each stall, offering products that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
The SARAS Aajeevika Mela will also feature cultural programs and activities, promoting sustainable practices and waste management systems to ensure cleanliness and hygiene.
Open daily from 10 am to 8:00 pm, the Mela invites visitors to explore stalls, participate in workshops, and celebrate the talent and entrepreneurship of rural women artisans.