“Sumangal-Diwali Fair Organized by RAJEEVIKA Provides Platform for Women Entrepreneurs”

Jaipur, Oct 2025: The Rajasthan Rural Livelihoods Development Council (RAJEEVIKA) is organizing the Sumangal-Diwali Fair at the campus of Indira Gandhi Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Institute, Jawaharlal Nehru Marg, Jaipur. Additional Chief Secretary of the Rural Development Department, Mrs. Shreya Guha, visited the fair on Sunday and said that such fairs provide an advanced platform for women to sell their handmade products and receive fair value for their creations.

Women members of the state’s self-help groups (SHGs) are showcasing and selling their products at the fair. Items on display include handicrafts, handloom products, food items, and products made using advanced techniques.

Mrs. Guha noted that there is significant enthusiasm among visitors for these rural products. The fair offers a glimpse of the rich culture, attire, language, and traditional products from all districts of Rajasthan. Some of the key attractions include Blue Pottery of Rajasthan, Kota Doria fabrics, iron items, rose products, lac bangles, pickles, namkeen, mangodi, papad, terracotta items, jute and millet-based products, Sanganeri prints, kari Sanganeri, kasuri methi, paper products, archery bows, soft toys, and Rajasthani footwear.

The Additional Chief Secretary highlighted that RAJEEVIKA organizes and supports rural women from poor communities through self-help groups by providing training and financial assistance to enhance their livelihoods. Women SHG members primarily work in non-agricultural activities such as handloom, handicrafts, and food processing using traditional methods.

She further mentioned that the Indira Gandhi Panchayati Raj and Rural Development Institute campus is aesthetically appealing, making it a perfect venue for the fair. The fair includes a food court offering delicious items that leave a lasting impression. Since Diwali falls in October, organizing the fair during this festive period is particularly beneficial. The fair also reflects the harmonious blend of monsoon and autumn atmospheres, adding to its charm.