Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela Inaugurated in Mohali with Focus on Women Empowerment
The Mohali carnival, officially known as the Punjab Sakhi Shakti Mela, commenced with great enthusiasm on Wednesday at the Mela Ground in Sector 88, Mohali. This event underscores the Punjab government's unwavering commitment to fostering women empowerment and supporting rural entrepreneurship across the state.
Government Officials Highlight Event's Significance
The inauguration ceremony was graced by Punjab Rural Development & Panchayat and Tourism & Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond, alongside former Delhi deputy chief minister and AAP Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia. In his address to the attendees, Minister Sond emphasized that the Sakhi Shakti Mela is designed to empower rural women self-help groups (SHGs) and women entrepreneurs by offering them a robust, government-supported marketing platform.
"Women SHGs produce high-quality, organic, and traditional products, but they often face challenges in accessing larger markets. This mela effectively bridges that gap," Sond stated. He further explained that the event is organized by the Punjab State Rural Livelihood Mission (PSRLM) under the Rural Development & Panchayat Department, in collaboration with the Industry & Commerce Department.
Substantial Budget Increase and Women-Led Participation
Minister Sond highlighted that nearly 90 per cent of the stalls at the mela are managed by women, showcasing their confidence and entrepreneurial prowess. He noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, the budget for the mela has been significantly increased from Rs 5 crore to Rs 70 crore. This move contrasts with previous governments, which he claimed neglected grassroots entrepreneurship and the promotion of Punjab's rich cultural heritage.
Sond also outlined the Mann government's governance reforms, addressing key challenges such as drugs, corruption, and gangsterism. Initiatives like Aam Aadmi Clinics, Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (providing cashless treatment up to Rs 10 lakh), Schools of Eminence, Yudh Nasheyan Virudh, and merit-based employment have been implemented with the vision of building a "Rangla Punjab."
Inspirational Words from Manish Sisodia
Speaking at the event, Manish Sisodia expressed his admiration for the resilience of Punjab's women entrepreneurs. "These women are crafting inspiring success stories, balancing their family responsibilities with business ventures, and economically strengthening SHGs," he remarked. Sisodia added that the Sakhi Shakti Mela provides these entrepreneurs with a national and global platform to display their skills and leadership abilities.
Honors and Innovations Announced
During the inauguration, women achievers were honored for their contributions, and a renewable/solar energy innovation competition for women was announced. This competition, supported by GIZ India, offers assistance of up to Rs 25 lakh to encourage sustainable energy solutions among women entrepreneurs.
The Sakhi Shakti Mela will continue until February 10, providing ample opportunities for networking, sales, and skill development. This event not only celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit of Punjab's women but also reinforces the government's dedication to creating an inclusive and prosperous economic environment.
