Kamrup (Assam) [India], December 3 (HBTV): The 16-day-long Asomi Saras Mela, which began on November 30, is in full swing at the Veterinary College grounds in Guwahati's Khanapara and will continue until December 15. The fair is open to visitors daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Organized by the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ASRLM) under the Panchayat & Rural Development Department, the event aims to provide a platform for Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and micro-entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their products.

Nibedan Das Patowary, State Mission Director of ASRLM, highlighted the scale of the event, stating: 'This year, we have 226 stalls, with 90 from outside Assam and the rest from SHGs across different parts of the state. The response has been overwhelming, and we expect even more visitors as the fair progresses.'

Entrepreneurs have praised the initiative for creating opportunities. Kalpana Taye, from Dhemaji district, shared her success: 'We sold products worth over INR 1.80 lakh yesterday. This initiative by the government is commendable.'

Similarly, Chitra Basumatary, who specializes in handmade dry flowers and wooden products, noted a positive response, adding that she has participated in previous editions with similar success.

The fair also attracts participants from outside Assam. Deepak Verma, an entrepreneur from Jharkhand, remarked: 'I have been part of this mela for five years. It provides an excellent platform to showcase our traditional products and receive great feedback.'

Asomi Saras Mela showcases a wide range of products, reflecting the rich rural craftsmanship of Assam and other Indian states.   

(ANI)