Itanagar, June 27: : In a significant step toward strengthening rural entrepreneurship and promoting self-reliant communities, the Arunachal State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ArSRLM) successfully organized the Udhyami Panjikaran Mela on June 26 at the District Administrative Office, Pasighat, East Siang District. The event was graced by Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC), Tatling Pertin, as the Chief Guest. Also in attendance were several Heads of Departments (HODs) including EAC Pasighat, District Agriculture Officer, District Horticulture Officer, Assistant Director of Textile and Handicrafts, Assistant Director of Industries, Food Safety Officer, Program Manager of Selco Foundation (East Siang District), and Branch Managers of Arunachal Pradesh Rural Bank (APRB) and Central Bank of India. A large number of Self Help Group (SHG) members also actively participated in the mela.

During the program, ADC Tatling Pertin emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among various departments and community members. He praised the efforts of ArSRLM officials for their dedication and impactful work toward empowering the rural population of East Siang.

The District Horticulture Officer highlighted collaborative opportunities under schemes such as the Atmanirbhar Bagwani Yojana (ANBY), aiming to uplift the horticultural capabilities of SHG entrepreneurs.

The Assistant Director of Textile and Handicrafts spoke on the critical importance of branding and advertising in enhancing product visibility and marketability. He urged SHG members to focus on branding and storytelling as essential parts of product development.

Assistant Director of Industries shed light on the PMFME (Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises) scheme, encouraging rural entrepreneurs to take full advantage of this centrally-sponsored program to scale up their ventures.

The Food Safety Officer provided a comprehensive session on FSSAI licensing, explaining label requirements, product testing methods, and hygiene standards critical for consumer safety and regulatory compliance.

The Program Manager of Selco Foundation introduced participants to the concept of solarization of livelihood equipment, offering innovative solutions to reduce dependency on traditional energy sources and enhance productivity.

Representatives from APRB and Central Bank of India guided participants through the MUDRA loan application process, offering insights into credit opportune

ities for rural micro-entrepreneurs and how to access financial support without collateral.

The program concluded with a stall visit, where various SHG members showcased their locally-made products ranging from processed foods to traditional handicrafts, textiles, and herbal goods.

Events like the Udhyami Panjikaran Mela reaffirm the government’s and ArSRLM’s commitment to empowering grassroots entrepreneurs and creating a sustainable ecosystem for rural economic development.