SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Rural Livelihoods Mission (JKRLM) is gearing up to host the second edition of SARAS Aajeevika 2.0, set to dazzle patrons at the vibrant Aquaplex Crown, Bagh-e-Bahu, from February 10 to February 20.
Organised under the auspices of the Department of Rural Development and Panchayti Raj, this ten-day extravaganza promises a jubilant celebration of art, craft, culture, and cuisine, spotlighting the rich tapestry of India while championing local products.
SARAS Aajeevika Mela serves as a pivotal platform for women artisans from rural self-help groups associated with DAY-NRLM to exhibit their exceptional talents and products. Visitors can anticipate a diverse array of exquisitely crafted handloom and handicraft treasures, spanning textiles, pottery, woodwork, metalwork, and paintings.
Indu Kanwal Chib, Mission Director of JKRLM, emphasized the significance of SARAS Aajeevika in empowering rural women by providing them with a direct avenue to showcase and vend their wares. “It also allows them to understand customer preferences and choices, improve and reinvent their products, and enhance their marketing skills,” she added.
Chib underscored that the Mela exclusively features handicrafts, handlooms, and natural food products crafted by rural women, thus championing their entrepreneurial spirit.
“In addition, daily workshops will be conducted for ten different organisations to enhance the skills of women belonging to self-help groups,” she elaborated.
The festivities will extend beyond the exhibition stalls, incorporating traditional performances, entertainment, and cultural activities to enchant visitors of all ages. With dedicated play equipment for children, SARAS Aajeevika 2.0 aims to be an immersive experience celebrating the vibrancy of rural India while fostering economic empowerment and cultural exchange.
