Ahmedabad, February 26 (NationPress) - Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Virendra Kumar, officially launched the Shilp Samagam Mela-2026 at Vallabh Sadan on the picturesque Sabarmati Riverfront, characterizing it as a vibrant homage to self-reliance, dignity, and social empowerment.

The Minister highlighted that since 2014, the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has either organized or participated in nearly 100 Shilp Samagam Melas aimed at uplifting the products and livelihoods of marginalized artisans. In the period of 2025-26, five such melas have been held, with plans for additional events in 2026-27.

He pointed out that Ahmedabad, with its rich history tied to the freedom struggle, the iconic Mahatma Gandhi’s Sabarmati Ashram, and as the working ground of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, provides a fitting backdrop for an event centered on artisan empowerment.

Under the SEED Scheme, which aims to uplift De-notified, Nomadic, and Semi-Nomadic Tribes, a total of 5,581 Women Self-Help Groups have been established across eight states to foster economic independence and entrepreneurship.

These groups receive various forms of financial support, including revolving funds, entry point funds, and skill training to boost their livelihood prospects. The health aspect of the scheme has also seen the distribution of around 75,000 Ayushman Cards to qualified beneficiaries.

The Minister noted that on March 13, 2024, Prime Minister Modi launched the ‘PM-SURAJ Portal’, which aims to facilitate transparent and accessible delivery of concessional loan schemes from the Ministry to designated beneficiaries.

The ‘PM-DAKSH Portal’ has been created for skill training, while the ‘SFMP Portal’ focuses on scholarships, enhancing access to welfare programs. These digital platforms have greatly improved transparency and efficiency in execution, he added.

Additionally, under the Ministry’s 'VISVAS' yojana, eligible applicants can receive a 5 percent interest subvention on bank loans to assist their economic ventures.

The ‘NAMASTE’ scheme advocates safety and dignity for those engaged in septic tank and sewer work by promoting mechanized sanitation and providing necessary welfare support.

The apex corporations under the Ministry have offered loan assistance to nearly 60 lakh individuals and their families, with skill training provided to over 6 lakh youth, significantly aiding in livelihood generation and economic empowerment.

Expressing optimism, the Minister stated that the Shilp Samagam Mela in Ahmedabad would not only enhance the sales of artisan products but also link them with new avenues for self-reliance, dignity, and sustainable livelihoods.

Running from February 26 to March 4, the mela showcases 75 stalls featuring artisans from 14 states, presenting an array of traditional crafts and goods.

A variety of handicraft items are on display, including Lucknowi chikankari, Banarasi sarees, Chanderi and Maheshwari textiles, Bhagalpuri tussar silk, Jaipuri and Kolhapuri footwear, agate stone work, bamboo products, Kota Doria fabrics, and carpets.

For artisans unable to attend in person, the Ministry has developed the ‘Bharat Tulip’ online platform to assist in the sale of their products, which is integrated with various e-commerce sites to broaden market access.

A ‘Bharat Tulip Showroom’ has also been inaugurated at the mela to enhance market opportunities for more beneficiaries and improve their consumer access.