Chandigarh: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said the Surajkund Diwali Mela is a meaningful initiative to provide a new market to artisans, craftspeople and artists who are working hard to realise the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat and promote Swadeshi products. The objective of the Mela is to bring local products directly to customers without intermediaries and ensure that artisans receive fair returns for their hard work. He said that growing public trust in local products would help artisans reach new customers and encourage them to expand their work.
Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini was addressing a gathering on Friday at the inauguration of the Diwali Mela at Surajkund in Faridabad. Haryana Heritage and Tourism Minister Dr. Arvind Sharma and several other dignitaries were present on the occasion. Artists also presented colourful cultural performances during the ceremony.
Welcoming all visitors and tourists attending the Mela, Nayab Singh Saini extended his greetings on Karwa Chauth, Ahoi Ashtami, Dhanteras, Diwali, Vishwakarma Puja, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj and Chhath Puja. He said that the Mela, being organised from October 23 to 26, would showcase Indian handicrafts, folk culture and the diverse culinary traditions of different regions. Families visiting the Mela would have an opportunity to experience the country’s rich traditions up close and purchase products made by artisans and craftspeople.
He said that the most beautiful light of Diwali is the one that illuminates not only our own homes but also the homes of hardworking families. Purchasing products made by local artisans during festivals supports their livelihoods. Such purchases help artisans generate resources to take up new work, buy raw materials and create employment opportunities for others associated with their work.
He said that Self-Help Groups have emerged as a strong medium for women’s empowerment, and their products are gaining recognition across the state. Under the Haryana State Rural Livelihoods Mission, more than 6 lakh families have been connected through 67,641 Self-Help Groups so far.
The Tourism Minister said that archaeological excavations are underway at Rakhigarhi in Haryana, offering an opportunity to explore a civilisation dating back 10,000 years. Rakhigarhi provides a glimpse into the ancient Sanatan cultural heritage. He urged more people to visit the site, explore the thousands-of-years-old civilisation and gain an understanding of how people lived during that period.
