The Rajasthan Rural Livelihoods Development Council (Rajeevika) organised the Sumangal-Diwali Mela at the Indira Gandhi Institute of Panchayati Raj and Rural Development in Jaipur, showcasing products made by rural women across the state. It is being held from October 1 to October 12, 2025.
Shreya Guha, Additional Chief Secretary, Rural Development Department, visited the mela and said that women members of self-help groups (SHGs) were displaying handicrafts, handloom items, food products, and other goods created using both traditional and modern techniques.
The fair features a range of rural products, including Rajasthan’s Blue Pottery, Kota Doria, iron goods, lac bangles, pickles, papad, mangodi, terracotta items, jute products, millet-based products, Sanganeri prints, Kasuri methi, paper products, soft toys, and traditional Rajasthani footwear. These products are presented for sale directly by the women artisans, providing them with market exposure and fair pricing.
Rajeevika organises such events to support rural women by providing training, financial assistance, and livelihood opportunities through SHGs. The council primarily focuses on non-agricultural activities, including handloom, handicraft, and traditional food production, which are managed and executed by SHG members.
The mela also includes a food court where visitors can purchase traditional food items prepared by local women. By timing the event in October, during the Diwali festival season, the mela allows increased participation and creates opportunities for higher sales of rural products.
Through the Sumangal-Diwali Mela, Rajeevika aims to strengthen the economic participation of rural women by creating direct marketing channels, enhancing visibility for their products, and promoting skill-based entrepreneurship. The initiative also provides exposure to local culture, crafts, and traditional methods of production, reflecting the diversity of Rajasthan’s districts in terms of handicrafts, textiles, and culinary products.
The event integrates multiple rural development objectives, including skill development, financial empowerment, and market linkages for women artisans. It serves as a practical example of promoting non-agricultural livelihoods and enabling rural women to earn income independently.
By organising such melas regularly, Rajeevika supports the growth of rural enterprises, increases the market reach of women’s products, and encourages sustainable economic development in Rajasthan’s rural communities.
