Asomi Saras Mela gets underway in Guwahati, to culminate on Dec 15

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaDecember 2, 2024

The Asomi Saras Mela 2024 got underway at the Veterinary College playground at Khanapara in Guwahati, celebrating the spirit of rural entrepreneurship and Assam’s rich cultural heritage.

The mela was inaugurated by Assam Minister of Panchayat and Rural Development Ranjeet Kumar Dass on Sunday evening, accompanied by prominent dignitaries, including Dr. J. B. Ekka, Additional Chief Secretary, and Munindra Sharma, State Mission Director, ASRLM.

Organized by the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission (ASRLM) under the aegis of the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), the mela provides a platform for rural artisans, self-help groups (SHGs), and entrepreneurs to showcase their unique crafts and connect with urban consumers. The event features 225 stalls representing SHGs and rural entrepreneurs from Assam and other states.

In his inaugural address, Minister Dass emphasized the Assam government’s commitment to empowering rural communities, particularly women, and promoting self-reliance through initiatives like the Mukhyamantri Mahila Udyamita Abhiyaan (MMUA). This flagship program aims to transform 40 lakh women SHG members into rural micro-entrepreneurs.

Dass also highlighted the Lakhpati Baideo Scheme, which seeks to ensure an annual income of ₹1 lakh for 39 lakh rural women across the state.

The event showcased a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern digital inclusion.

The minister also launched DigiPay Sakhis Portal, a digital platform to enhance financial inclusion for SHGs, empowering rural women through digital transactions.

He also released a book capturing the success stories of incubated beneficiaries, developed in collaboration with IIM Calcutta Innovation Park (CIP).

The minister also launched the Asomi Gift Box featuring Assam’s GI-tagged products, this initiative aims to promote the region’s unique cultural identity.

In the programme, tablets were distributed to incubated beneficiaries to support their entrepreneurial ventures and digital growth.

The mela also hosts cultural performances, workshops, and interactive sessions to promote skill development and knowledge sharing among artisans.

Dass reiterated the Assam government’s vision, under Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, to strengthen the rural economy and empower women-led initiatives. He applauded ASRLM’s role in transforming rural livelihoods and preserving Assam’s cultural heritage.

The Asomi Saras Mela 2024 exemplifies the integration of tradition, innovation, and empowerment, showcasing the potential of Assam’s rural economy to thrive on a national and global scale.

The mela which also includes cultural programmes, workshops, and interactive sessions, will culminate on December 15.