Agartala, Dec 29: Members of Self Help Groups (SHGs) under the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) recorded a remarkable surge in sales at the recently concluded Saras Fair, registering their highest-ever turnover and reflecting the growing strength of women-led enterprises in the state.
According to official records, TRLM “didis” achieved total sales of Rs 17.67 crore during this year’s Saras Fair, breaking all previous records. In comparison, the total sales during the fair last year stood at Rs 12 crore, indicating a significant year-on-year growth and increased market acceptance of SHG products.
The Saras Fair witnessed enthusiastic participation from SHGs across Tripura, along with representatives from various line departments and entrepreneurs from outside states. Thousands of TRLM didis showcased a wide range of products, drawing large crowds and buyers throughout the event.
This year’s fair also saw the launch of several new and innovative products in both farm and non-farm categories. These included value-added agricultural items, processed food products, handloom and handicraft goods, and other livelihood-based innovations developed by SHG members with support from TRLM.
In a major step towards strengthening market linkages and entrepreneurial capacity, TRLM formalised four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) during the event. Additionally, an MoU is set to be signed with the Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Kolkata. Under this collaboration, IIM Kolkata will help conceptualise and provide handholding support to SHG members and rural entrepreneurs.
The initiative aims to upgrade “Lakhpati Didis” into “Millionaire Didis,” with select high-performing entrepreneurs being mentored to eventually become “Crorepati Didis.” This reflects TRLM’s long-term vision of transforming rural women into successful business leaders through skill development, innovation and market access.
TRLM expressed sincere gratitude to Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha for his continuous support and encouragement towards women empowerment and livelihood development. The mission reaffirmed its commitment to work to its fullest potential to enhance income generation, entrepreneurship and sustainable livelihood opportunities for SHG members across Tripura.
