SARAS Fair Empowers Rural Women, Celebrates Local Craftsmanship in Agartala.

Agartala, Tripura - The 19th Regional SARAS Fair burst into life at the International Fair Ground in Hapania, transforming the venue into a vibrant showcase of rural entrepreneurship and cultural richness. Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha, alongside Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul and MLA Meena Rani Sarkar, officially inaugurated the event, marking a significant celebration of women's economic empowerment.

The opening ceremony was steeped in symbolism, with dignitaries participating in a tree-planting ritual that underscored the fair's commitment to environmental consciousness and sustainable development. A captivating cultural programme followed, featuring a spectacular blend of Indigenous and Bengali musical and dance performances that brought Tripura's diverse cultural heritage to the forefront.

Self-help groups (SHGs) dominated the fair's landscape, with an array of stalls displaying meticulously crafted handmade goods, decorative items, and innovative products. The food stalls emerged as particular crowd-pleasers, drawing enthusiastic visitors throughout the day and highlighting the culinary expertise of rural women entrepreneurs.

Chief Minister Dr. Saha emphasised the broader national context of women's empowerment, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's initiatives such as the "Lakh Pati Didi" programme. He noted how such schemes have fundamentally transformed women's societal position, extending their influence beyond traditional household boundaries.

The fair serves as a critical platform for rural artisans, providing them with unprecedented market access and economic opportunities. It represents more than a commercial event – it's a celebration of local creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation.

Visitors thronged the venue, creating a bustling atmosphere that spoke volumes about the event's significance. The SARAS Fair stands as a testament to Tripura's commitment to women's empowerment, rural development, and cultural celebration.

From intricately crafted handicrafts to mouth-watering local delicacies, the fair captured the essence of rural entrepreneurship, offering a compelling narrative of economic resilience and cultural pride.