Rural artisans in north-east get a platform to boost their business

The north-east region is known for its rich arts and handicrafts. The artisans in the region are getting direct contact with the customers during the various fairs which help them to boost their business potential.

Be it the Assam Mahotsav in Jorhat or Saras Fair in Agartaka, the fairs are providing a suitable platform to the artisans.

It's a win-win situation for artisans in Assam as they get to sell their products directly to customers.

The Assam Mahotsav in its 13th edition has attracted more than 100 crafts persons, self-help groups and artisans to exhibit their products under one roof.

The mega event organized under the aegis of Intandem, displayed a variety of indigenous products like handloom items, canes and bamboo works and jewelry.

Prince Hazarika, a visitor here, said that it is a good platform for the local artisans.

"The local entrepreneurs are getting benefitted by this. The Assam Mahotsav is a good opportunity for them because usually they have to go outside to attend such fairs but here locally only they can showcase their products," he added.

Guleswar Borah, an artisan, said that such fairs benefit them a lot.

"Here we get customers for our products. People from outside come here and we interact with them. Some people buy from me and I also give my card for my shop so they come and buy from there. So, this fair is very good opportunity for me," he added.

In Agartala city, the 10-day long entrepreneur's exhibition 'Saras Mela' is showcasing the exquisite works by rural artisans from across the country and attracting large number of visitors.

The fair being held at the International fair ground in Hapania is organized under the aegis of the Ministry of state rural development with an aim to facilitate greater exposure for rural artisans.

At least 300 artisans and crafts persons from 10 states displayed a variety of handmade products at the fair.

The entrepreneurs were glad to have got an opportunity to showcase their products at a bigger platform and were happy with the response from the customers.

A Sarma, the organizer, said their main aim is empowerment of women.

"The earlier SGSYI has been done away with the introduction of NRLM in the whole country. We are also introducing NRLM and as you know under NRLM only women SHGs are being formed. So, it is going to give a platform to the downtrodden," he added.

Sankar nath, a participant, said that he participated in various fairs and made a good profit.

"Our products are doing good business," he added.

Tapasi Roy, a visitor here, said that a variety of products are available at reasonable prices.

"I have seen various things here including handicraft, bamboo and cane products, handloom products and food items. I have enjoyed visiting here. The price is also reasonable," he added.

Regularly organizing such fairs is extremely beneficial for rural artisans who get a chance to showcase their handiworks to a wider market and make profit.