Guwahati, 2nd October: Assam Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah on October 2 inaugurated the ‘RURAL MART’ at the Nalbari Regional Science Centre and Planetarium. The event was graced by the presence of DC Nalbari Varnali Deka, State Mission Director ASRLM Krishna Baruah, and other officials. The Mart, established under the Assam State Rural Livelihood Mission, Department of Panchayat and Rural Development, received support from NABARD for its long-term sustainability.
This Mart serves as a platform for local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to showcase and sell their locally-made products, including indigenous food items like pitha and ladoo. Additionally, customers can place orders for specially designed clothing and pickles.
During the ceremony, Minister Jayanta Malla Baruah emphasized the importance of uplifting SHGs in the district and their significant contribution to the local and state economies. He also highlighted various government support programs available to SHGs and encouraged them to make the most of these opportunities.
State Mission Director ASRLM, Krishna Baruah, addressed the gathering, urging SHGs to utilize their earnings for various activities rather than lending them to others.
Following the inauguration, the Minister and DC participated in a PRAGYA QUIZ competition held at the Nalbari Regional Science Centre and Planetarium. They also distributed prizes to the winners. This event was part of the Swachhta Hi Seva campaign by the Government of India, leading up to online quiz series celebrating World River Day (24th Sept), Antyodaya Diwas (25th Sept), World Environmental Health Day (26th Sept), and World Tourism Day (27th Sept).
It needs to be mentioned that the Planetarium was inaugurated by Assam’s Chief Minister, Himanta Biswa Sarma, on December 6, 2022.