The 20th Regional Saras Mela begins in Tripura as Chief Minister Manik Saha reaffirms commitment to women empowerment, SHG development, financial inclusion, and promotion of local products under women-led entrepreneurship initiatives.
The 20th edition of the Regional Saras Mela was formally inaugurated on Saturday at the International Fair Ground in Hapania, marking a significant celebration of women-led entrepreneurship and grassroots economic development. The event was inaugurated by Tripura Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha, who reiterated the government’s firm commitment to ensuring women’s progress across every sphere of society.
Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, the Chief Minister said that women’s empowerment remains a central pillar of both the state and central governments’ development agenda. He emphasized that multiple initiatives have already been implemented to strengthen women’s financial independence, safety, and social participation.
The Saras Mela, which will continue until December 26, has emerged as a major platform for women associated with Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to showcase, promote, and sell their handmade and locally produced goods. This year, a total of 411 stalls have been set up, representing SHG members from different parts of Tripura. The fair has drawn wide participation, with SHG women — often referred to as “Didis” — presenting products ranging from handicrafts and handloom items to processed food, organic goods, and traditional artifacts.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Saha described women as symbols of strength and resilience, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of women-led development. He said that a strong and self-reliant nation can only be built when women become economically independent and socially empowered.
The Chief Minister highlighted the importance of the Prime Minister’s call for “vocal for local”, noting that it has opened new avenues for SHG women by encouraging the use and promotion of locally made products. According to him, the state government has placed special emphasis on strengthening the SHG movement, which plays a critical role in rural livelihoods and women’s economic inclusion.
Dr. Saha further stated that bank loans are being actively provided to SHG women to support their entrepreneurial activities. Alongside financial assistance, the government is also focusing on improving marketing opportunities for SHG products so that women entrepreneurs can access wider markets and achieve sustainable incomes.
He stressed the need for greater publicity and branding of SHG products to enhance their popularity beyond local boundaries. The Chief Minister urged SHG members to move beyond conventional production methods and adapt to time-relevant designs, quality standards, and modern marketing strategies, including digital platforms.
Speaking on women’s safety and welfare, Dr. Saha informed that women police stations are being established to ensure a secure environment for women across the state. He also noted that major welfare schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, and Mudra loans are being provided in the names of women, reinforcing their ownership and financial agency.
Highlighting the broader significance of the Saras Mela, the Chief Minister said that such fairs not only provide a dedicated marketplace for SHG products but also act as a cultural confluence. They bring together diverse communities, traditions, and crafts, reflecting Tripura’s rich composite cultural heritage.
During the programme, Dr. Saha inaugurated several SHG products and formally unveiled the cover of “Pratyasha,” a souvenir published by the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM). The souvenir documents success stories, initiatives, and the evolving role of SHGs in transforming rural economies.
Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Deputy Speaker of the Tripura Legislative Assembly Ramprasad Pal, Agartala Mayor Dipak Majumder, MLA Mina Rani Sarkar, Sabhadhipati of West Tripura Zilla Parishad Biswajit Shil, West Tripura District Magistrate Dr. Vishal Kumar, and TRLM Chief Executive Officer Tarit Kanti Chakma.
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The 20th Regional Saras Mela is expected to attract a large number of visitors in the coming days, offering them an opportunity to support women entrepreneurs while experiencing the state’s diverse cultural and artisanal traditions. The event stands as a strong testament to Tripura’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusive growth through women-led development.
