early times report
JAMMU, Jan 29: Mission Director, Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihood Mission (JKRLM), Dr Shubhra Sharma, has said that Saras Mela is a powerful platform for rural women to showcase their skills, connect with markets and build confidence towards sustainable livelihoods.
Talking to media Dr Shubhra Sharma informed that Saras Mela 2026 will be organised from January 31 to February 9 at Kala Kendra, Jammu, bringing together women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) of Jammu and Kashmir and various other states of the country.
Dr Shubhra Sharma said that the mela reflects the strength, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of rural women. “Saras Mela is about opening doors for rural women to dream bigger, showcase their creativity, connect with buyers and turn their skills into lasting opportunities that can uplift entire communities,” she said.
She explained that the mela provides SHG women an opportunity to display a wide range of products including handwoven fabrics, handicrafts, homemade food items and daily-use products rooted in village life. The interaction with urban consumers helps women understand market trends, customer preferences, modern branding and packaging practices.
Dr Shubhra Sharma added that while Saras Mela may not guarantee permanent market access for every participant, many women succeed in developing long-term links with buyers, leading to sustained income opportunities even after the event. “We want participants to gain hands-on exposure to marketing and digital tools and build networks that continue beyond the mela,” she said.
The Mission Director further stated that stalls representing multiple states will showcase handloom, handicrafts and authentic regional cuisines, turning the mela into a vibrant confluence of culture, craft and tradition from across India.
Earlier, Dr Shubhra Sharma reviewed the preparations for Saras Mela and stressed the importance of close coordination among concerned departments to ensure smooth conduct of the event.
|
