<p data-start="213" data-end="534">Union Minister for Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, inaugurated the SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025 at Noida Haat, Uttar Pradesh, via video conferencing. The event was also attended by Union Ministers of State for Rural Development, Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani and Shri Kamlesh Paswan.</p><p data-start="536" data-end="874">Addressing the gathering, Shri Chouhan emphasized the significant role of SARAS in empowering women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs), helping them become financially independent. “Through their art and skills, SHG sisters are earning a livelihood and becoming lakhpatis. I encourage everyone to support and promote rural products,” he said.</p><p data-start="876" data-end="1229">Dr. Chandrasekhar Pemmasani lauded the initiative, stating that the SARAS Mela has evolved into a movement where women are emerging as entrepreneurs and job providers rather than just workers. He noted that SHG members, popularly known as SHG Didis, are now selling their products directly to the government through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM).</p><p data-start="1231" data-end="1430">Shri Kamlesh Paswan highlighted the Mela’s growing influence, describing it as a platform that not only supports Lakhpati Didis but also encourages a shift towards organic and sustainable products.</p><h3 data-start="1432" data-end="1512">SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025: A Celebration of Tradition, Art, and Culture</h3><p data-start="1514" data-end="1954">Scheduled from February 21 to March 10, 2025, SARAS Ajeevika Mela 2025 is being organized for the fifth time by the Ministry of Rural Development in collaboration with the National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR). Themed "Tradition, Art, and Culture" and "Developing the Export Potential of Lakhpati SHG Didis", the event aims to showcase the artistic and entrepreneurial talents of rural India.</p><h3 data-start="1956" data-end="2018">Showcasing Rural Craftsmanship and Culinary Delights</h3><p data-start="2020" data-end="2186">The fair features 200 stalls displaying exquisite handloom, handicrafts, and natural food products made by SHG members from 30 states. Visitors can explore:</p><ul data-start="2187" data-end="2739"><li data-start="2187" data-end="2485">Handloom & Sarees: Unique regional weaves such as Kalamkari (Andhra Pradesh), Mekhela Chadar (Assam), Kosa Sarees (Chhattisgarh), Chanderi & Bagh Print (Madhya Pradesh), Tussar and Bandha (Odisha), Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu), Pashmina (Uttarakhand), and Baluchari (West Bengal), among others.</li><li data-start="2486" data-end="2580">Handicrafts & Home Décor: A diverse range of jewelry, home décor, and artistic crafts.</li><li data-start="2581" data-end="2739">Ethnic Cuisine: 25 live food stalls from 20 states, offering delicacies like ginger products, tea, pulses, coffee, apple jam, papads, and pickles.</li></ul><p data-start="2741" data-end="2840">With 450 SHG participants, the event aims to boost economic opportunities for rural artisans.</p><h3 data-start="2842" data-end="2886">Facilities & Cultural Extravaganza</h3><p data-start="2888" data-end="3121">To ensure a comfortable experience, the Mela offers dedicated spaces for senior citizens, children, and mothers’ care zones. Cultural programs and performances are also held daily, enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the event.</p><p data-start="3123" data-end="3233">A dedicated export promotion pavilion has been set up to help SHG sisters explore international markets.</p><h3 data-start="3235" data-end="3290">Aligning with ‘Vocal for Local’ & Vision 2047</h3><p data-start="3292" data-end="3669">Launched under the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) by the Ministry of Rural Development, the initiative aims to empower artisans and craftsmen through sustainable livelihood opportunities. It also aligns with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign and his vision for a ‘Developed India by 2047’.</p><p data-start="3671" data-end="3848">The SARAS Ajeevika Mela continues to be a landmark initiative, bridging the gap between rural artisans and mainstream markets while celebrating India’s rich cultural heritage.</p>
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