Agartala, Dec 29, 2023, TRIPURA TIMES Desk

Agartala, Dec 29: Chief Minister Dr. Manik Shah on Friday said the present state government has been working for socio-economic development of the women through Self Help Groups.

He was addressing the inaugural function of 18th regional Saras Fair at Hapania International fair ground on friday evening. It will continue till January 8 next.

The Chief Minister said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal is to make the women Swanirbhar and the state government has been working in the same direction.

To realise the Prime Minister's vision, a plan has already been initiated to make Lakhpati Didis and increase the number of Self Help Groups, Dr. Saha said.

He also mentioned that 51,364 SHGs were already formed in the state with involvement of 4,66,566 women. 

The Saras Fair has been organised by Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) under the Rural Development department with the theme "Didi Lakhpati, Tripurar Agragati". This year, 377 stalls have been opened. Among them, six stalls are representing the SHGs of other states. The mela will continue till January 8 next.

Chief Executive Officer of TRLM Brahmneet Kaur delivered the welcome address. She said, over 82,000 Lakhpati Didis are there in the state and a target has been set to build more 1 lakh Lakhpati Didis by 2025.

Deputy Speaker Ram Prasad Paul, Mayor Dipak Majumder, MLA Mina Rani Sarkar and other dignitaries were present in the inaugural ceremony.

The Saras Fair is showcasing the attractive hand-made products prepared by the SHG Didis. Every year it becomes an income opportunity for the SHGs in line with 'Vocal for Local' vision of Prime Minister, an official said.