Six Self-Help Groups from Tripura showcased handloom, handicrafts, and traditional cuisine at the Saras Aajeevika Mela in Gurugram, highlighting women entrepreneurship, rural self-reliance, and cultural heritage under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission initiative.
Demonstrating resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit, six Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from Tripura successfully showcased their products at the prestigious Saras Aajeevika Mela held in Gurugram, Haryana. Organized by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) at Leisure Valley Park Ground in Sector-29, the national-level fair celebrated rural entrepreneurship, women empowerment, and sustainable livelihoods.
The participating SHGs represented Sepahijala, Dhalai, Unakoti, and West Tripura districts. Their stalls featured an impressive collection of handloom textiles, bamboo handicrafts, eco-friendly decorative items, and authentic traditional delicacies. Visitors from across the country were drawn to the vibrant display of Tripura’s cultural richness and craftsmanship, leading to strong public engagement and encouraging sales.
Officials present at the mela emphasized that the participation of Tripura’s SHGs reflects the steady growth of women-led enterprises under the National Rural Livelihoods Mission (NRLM). The initiative has played a transformative role in strengthening rural economies by promoting financial independence, skill development, and market accessibility for women.
The Saras Aajeevika Mela served as a powerful platform for these rural entrepreneurs to connect directly with buyers, traders, and potential collaborators from various states. Beyond commercial success, the exposure provided valuable networking opportunities and insights into emerging market trends, packaging standards, and branding strategies.
Local representatives accompanying the SHG members expressed pride in the recognition earned at the national event. They highlighted that such participation not only enhances household incomes but also reinforces confidence among rural women to scale up their enterprises. Moreover, these initiatives help preserve traditional weaving techniques, indigenous crafts, and culinary heritage that define Tripura’s identity.
| Also Read: Tripura declares War on Child Marriage Evil |
The annual Saras Aajeevika Mela has evolved into a significant national marketplace for rural artisans, farmers’ collectives, and women entrepreneurs. It promotes the broader vision of self-reliant villages and inclusive economic development. This year’s participation by Tripura reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to empowering women through structured institutional support, financial inclusion, and sustainable livelihood programs.
As rural women from Tripura continue to break barriers and expand their presence in national markets, their journey stands as a testament to the power of collective effort, skill enhancement, and policy-driven empowerment. The success at Gurugram signals a promising future for women-led enterprises from the state, strengthening both economic growth and cultural preservation at the grassroots level.
