By Firstdespatch Desk Dec 14, 2024
Agartala, Dec 14 (FD) Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha reiterated the state government’s commitment to empowering rural women through economic initiatives and self-reliance strategies. Speaking at the inauguration of the 19th Regional SARAS Fair-2024 on Saturday, Saha highlighted that the state has witnessed remarkable growth in women entrepreneurship through the efforts of 52,000 Self Help Groups (SHGs) involving 4.73 lakh rural women.
“These women have become successful entrepreneurs, not only managing their livelihoods but significantly contributing to the state’s rural economy,” the Chief Minister remarked.
He emphasized the critical role of financial support in this success, noting that banks have disbursed loans amounting to ₹1,414 crore to SHGs, enabling them to expand business activities and improve production quality. The state government has also infused ₹70 crore as a revolving fund and ₹626 crore as community investment to further boost rural self-reliance.
Saha lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, citing the recent Geographical Indication (GI) tags awarded to Tripura's iconic Matabari ‘Peda’ and the tribal traditional attire, ‘Risha.’ “These achievements showcase the skill and creativity of our artisans and craftspeople,” he said.
The 13-day SARAS Fair, organized by the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM), features over 400 stalls showcasing and selling rural products. According to Saha, this fair is not just a platform for trade but also an opportunity to enhance the skills and entrepreneurial abilities of rural artisans through interaction with experts and stakeholders.
To ensure comprehensive protection for SHG members, the government has enrolled them in various insurance schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana.
Saha highlighted the fair’s success in recent years, noting that products worth ₹1.5 crore were sold in 2022-23, while sales soared to ₹4.5 crore in 2023-24.
“Through such initiatives, we aim to make rural women not only self-reliant but also key contributors to Tripura’s economic progress,” he concluded.
The SARAS Fair stands as a testament to the state’s efforts to promote sustainable rural development and empower women entrepreneurs.