The colorful three-day Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela kicked off today at the ITI Ground in Nawanshahr with a ceremonial inauguration by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Development) Avneet Kaur.

The event, held by the Rural Development and Panchayat Department in partnership with the Industries and Commerce Department as part of the Punjab State Rural Livelihood Mission, aims to promote women’s empowerment and give a forum for self-help groups to demonstrate their skills and products.

Avneet Kaur, accompanied by Assistant Commissioner General Jagdeep Singh, lit the ceremonial lamp to kick off the celebration. Speaking at the event, she underlined the importance of such fairs in encouraging women to pursue business opportunities and contribute to their communities.

“The Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela will play an important role in further empowering women by giving them opportunities to display their skills and market their products,” she told me.

The mela has around 50 stalls put up by different self-help groups and departments. Highlights include stalls selling home décor, handicrafts, organic products, handmade spices, pickles, and swings.

The fair also includes cultural performances by school children, which lend a festive touch. Avneet Kaur met with members of the self-help groups, praising their efforts and urging them to continue their work.

The Additional Deputy Commissioner emphasized the significance of public participation in advancing these women-led projects. “I encourage everyone to attend this fair in big numbers and promote the products manufactured by self-help groups. This will not only assist to promote women’s empowerment, but it will also give these groups with more marketing chances for their products,” she said.

The display of self-help group items is one of the main attractions, providing a platform for small entrepreneurs to reach a larger audience. Visitors may enjoy a wide range of products while supporting local talent and craftsmanship. The fair also includes food stalls and children’s swings, making it a family-friendly event.

Special visitors at the mela included Block President Women Wing Gurpreet Kaur, District Education Officer Anita, District Child Protection Officer Kanchan Arora, and other officials who praised the project and its impact on women’s lives.

The Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela is more than just an exhibition; it celebrates women’s perseverance, inventiveness, and entrepreneurial energy. The mela promises to be a great event for all participants, with a mix of cultural activities, shopping options, and community interaction.