Two women SHG members from Tripura are showcasing the state’s traditional handicrafts at Karnataka Saras Fair 2026, gaining national exposure, expanding market opportunities, promoting rural entrepreneurship, and highlighting Tripura’s rich cultural heritage and women-led livelihoods.
Tripura’s rich handicraft tradition has received a national platform as two women Self Help Group (SHG) members from Poangbari BMMU in South Tripura are representing the state at the Karnataka Saras Fair 2026. The fair, being held from September 9 to 27, has brought together rural artisans, entrepreneurs and producers from different parts of the country.
The participation of the two women SHG members highlights the growing role of women-led rural enterprises in promoting Tripura’s traditional crafts and creating new livelihood opportunities. At the fair, the representatives are showcasing a range of handcrafted products that reflect the state’s cultural heritage, craftsmanship and creativity.
The Karnataka Saras Fair is recognised as an important platform for rural products and handicrafts, providing artisans and SHG members an opportunity to directly interact with customers, buyers and visitors from different regions. For the Tripura representatives, participation in the national-level exhibition offers valuable exposure beyond their local markets.
Officials of the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) said that facilitating the participation of SHG members in such fairs is part of efforts to strengthen market linkages and promote women as rural entrepreneurs. Exposure to larger markets allows artisans to understand customer preferences, establish business contacts and gain confidence in marketing their products.
The initiative also provides an opportunity to promote Tripura’s distinctive handicrafts among consumers outside the state. Through their participation, the women SHG members are showcasing not only individual products but also the skills and traditions nurtured within rural communities of Tripura.
Visitors at the Tripura stall have reportedly shown interest in the products, appreciating their craftsmanship and distinctive character. Such positive responses can help create greater visibility for products made by women-led SHGs and potentially open avenues for wider market access.
The participation also underlines the importance of SHGs in strengthening grassroots entrepreneurship and supporting sustainable livelihoods. By connecting rural producers with national-level markets, such fairs can help women artisans explore opportunities to expand their enterprises while preserving traditional skills.
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The presence of Tripura’s representatives at the Karnataka Saras Fair 2026 further contributes to cultural exchange by bringing the state’s handicraft traditions before a diverse national audience. It highlights how women SHG members are increasingly contributing to the promotion of local products, rural entrepreneurship and the broader economic development of their communities.
