Synopsis
Jammu hosts a ten-day Saras Livelihood Fair featuring handicrafts by women entrepreneurs from rural India. This event fosters cultural diversity and empowerment, showcasing products from over 19 states. Participants express gratitude for government initiatives that allow them to display their skills and improve their economic conditions.Key Takeaways
- Empowerment: Women entrepreneurs gain confidence and recognition.
- Cultural Diversity: Fair showcases talents from 19 states.
- Government Support: Schemes under PM Modi enhance economic conditions.
- Market Opportunities: Women gain access to markets for their products.
- Self-Help Groups: Collaboration fosters community and employment.
Jammu, Feb 20 (NationPress) A ten-day Saras Livelihood Fair, hosted at the city's art centre by the Rural Development Department, featured a vast selection of handicrafts and various products crafted by women entrepreneurs, especially from the rural regions of the nation.
The fair, referred to as ‘Mini India’, celebrated cultural diversity and self-sufficiency, with female artisans from over 19 states demonstrating their talents.
This extensive assortment of handicrafts created by rural women not only garnered admiration from fair attendees but also attracted numerous loyal customers who eagerly purchased many handmade items.
Women entrepreneurs, including participants from Tripura and Jammu and Kashmir, expressed their appreciation for various initiatives from the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They noted that these programs have enabled them to step outside their homes and present their art and skills.
Unified in their sentiment, they shared that such exposure provides them with a profound sense of empowerment.
Joshna from Tripura shared with IANS that she is part of a group of 30 women and visited Jammu for the first time.
“The status of women has significantly improved. Women are no longer confined to their homes; they are traveling abroad. PM Modi is doing commendable work for us,” she remarked.
Neeta Devi from Jammu mentioned that she leads a self-help group called 'Krishna', which markets rice, turmeric, chili, and spices.
She stated, “250 sisters are affiliated with us.”
“Their contributions have been substantial. We are reaping numerous benefits from this scheme. Thanks to PM Modi, our economic situation has enhanced. Our sisters have gained considerable employment,”
said Neeta.
Sama, a woman from Kashmir, noted that prior to joining the self-help group, she lacked any market access, resulting in lower product prices.
“After connecting with this scheme, I had the opportunity to display my skills. Even those without financial means can now showcase their talents,”
she added.
She further expressed, “Through this initiative, we received financial support, market opportunities, and our demand has been met. We are immensely grateful for this scheme, as it allows us to venture outside our state. We manage our own sales and marketing.”
