Pari Bazar, an effective initiative for women empowerment: Governor Shri Patel

Lauding the Pari Bazar initiative, Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel said it is a commendable step towards women empowerment and the promotion of women artisans. Speaking at the inaugural programme of the Pari Bazar Heritage Festival, he highlighted its meaningful contribution to supporting women artisans. The bazaar, organized by the Begums of Bhopal, was inaugurated by Governor Patel at Gauhar Mahal, and themed around Gondi painting. He also explored the product exhibition showcasing the craftsmanship of women artisans.

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel said that Bhopal’s rich cultural roots, have preserved its archaeological, historical, religious, literary, and artistic heritage for centuries. He noted that the city’s glorious heritage of art and literature, with its vibrant and diverse expressions, captivates global attention. Governor Patel commended the organizers of Pari Bazar for their dedication to promoting skilled artisans and their products, emphasizing the importance of such efforts in celebrating and sustaining cultural traditions.

Governor participates in the initiative to treat TB patients

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel honoured Nishchay Mitras during the programme and commended the Begums of Bhopal Club for supporting the government’s mission to eradicate TB by 2025. He emphasized that serving the poor and sick is a virtuous act akin to serving God. Governor Patel called for collective and self-help efforts to eliminate TB, stressing the need for sensitivity at both individual and institutional levels in providing treatment and care for TB patients in the state.

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel stated that under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s leadership, India is experiencing a new era of social, economic, and cultural development. The Prime Minister’s vision aims to make the nation capable, strong, and prosperous through collective trust, support, and effort. He highlighted the significance of the Pradhan Mantri Vishwakarma Yojana in economically empowering traditional artisans. The scheme provides free basic and advanced training, along with a Rs 15,000 scholarship voucher for purchasing toolkits, offering Rs 500 per day during training. Artisans can access bank linkages and avail loans of up to Rs 3 lakh at low interest rates to establish businesses, shops, or outlets. To promote cashless transactions, rewards are given for digital payments, and a dedicated sales platform is provided for artisans to market their products.

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel said that initiatives like GI tagging and Vocal for Local have revitalized the demand for products created by rural, traditional, and local artisans. He encouraged organizations like the Begums of Bhopal Club to guide artisans with the expertise of national and international professionals, enabling them to produce high-quality products that meet global market demands. He also urged the techno-savvy youth of the new generation to form self-help groups with artisans and craftsmen and to establish start-ups, fostering entrepreneurship in the artisan community.

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel was honoured with a shawl and a memento during the programme. Smt. Rakhshan Zahid, President of the Begums of Bhopal Club, delivered the welcome address. Smt. Meenakshi Singh, Deputy Secretary of the Tribal Affairs Department and MD of Vanya Prakashan, highlighted the government’s efforts to protect and promote tribal art and artists. Dr. Ajay Goenka, President of Chirayu Charitable Trust, congratulated the club for creating a platform for local artists and craftsmen. The club’s Secretary, Smt. Tamsin Khan proposed the vote of thanks.