Six-day SARAS Mela 2026 opens in Dimapur with rural entrepreneurs

Dimapur: The six-day SARAS Mela 2026 opened on Thursday at the Dimapur District Sports Complex Stadium. Billed as “The Biggest Rural Fair”, the event will run for six days and remain open daily from 11 am to 9 pm. Northeast Now reported that the fair was inaugurated by Thavaseelan K, Commissioner and Secretary of Rural Development, and is organised by the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission (NSRLM).

Participants and purpose

Self-Help Groups (SHGs), rural entrepreneurs and artisans from Nagaland and four guest states—Manipur, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Karnataka—are showcasing indigenous products. The initiative aims to familiarise rural entrepreneurs and SHG members with available financial services and help them access opportunities that improve their economic activities. Organisers say the fair seeks to help rural women and SHG members promote their products, connect with buyers and expand market reach.

Buyer-seller meet and business networking

A dedicated buyer-seller meet is scheduled to facilitate interactions between producers and potential buyers. The meet is intended to promote business networking and strengthen market linkages for participants. Skill-development workshops, entrepreneurship sessions and financial inclusion activities are also part of the programme, providing practical knowledge to improve business skills.

Workshops, sessions and interactive programmes

The mela features a range of interactive programmes designed to equip SHG members and rural entrepreneurs with practical knowledge. Workshops cover skill development and entrepreneurship, while financial inclusion activities introduce participants to banking and credit options. These sessions aim to improve participants’ ability to manage and grow their enterprises.

Attractions for visitors

Beyond the exhibitions, the mela offers several attractions. Digital art and live caricature sessions by Wandering Minds are available from November 11 to 18, adding a creative dimension for attendees. Additional features include a SARAS song dedication booth, an instant photo booth, a SARAS photo booth and a food festival that showcases ethnic Naga cuisine alongside popular fast-food options. A children’s play zone and carnival games provide recreational activities for families.

Automobile displays

Four automobile companies—Maruti Suzuki, Isuzu, Hyundai and Mahindra—are showcasing their latest models and offerings. Visitors can explore these vehicles as part of the fair’s broader aim to expose rural entrepreneurs to diverse market opportunities.

Through its combination of exhibitions, workshops, financial inclusion initiatives and business networking opportunities, SARAS Mela 2026 aims to strengthen rural livelihoods, promote entrepreneurship and create new market linkages for participants across Nagaland and the invited guest states.