Silchar: In a vibrant celebration of grassroots entrepreneurship and cultural heritage, the Cachar District Administration inaugurated the District-Level Akansha Haat in Silchar on Saturday. The three-day event, held under the aegis of NITI Aayog’s ‘Vocal for Local’ initiative, aims to promote self-reliance, empower Self-Help Groups (SHGs), and showcase traditional craftsmanship from across the Barak Valley.

Inaugurating the Haat, District Commissioner of Cachar Mridul Yadav, IAS, described the initiative as a symbol of rural aspiration and sustainable growth. “Akansha Haat is not merely a marketplace—it is where community dreams transform into self-reliant enterprises, and where our cultural roots find a sustainable future,” he said, drawing enthusiastic applause from a gathering of artisans, SHG members, officials, and citizens.

DC Yadav highlighted the district administration’s commitment to building a supportive ecosystem for innovation, rural enterprise, and women-led initiatives. He urged citizens to become conscious consumers by opting for locally-made products and supporting indigenous talent.

Also present on the occasion were Lakhipur Sub-Divisional Officer (Civil) Dhrubajyoti Pathak, ACS; CEO of Cachar Zilla Parishad Pranab Kumar Bora, ACS; Additional District Commissioner Hemanga Nobis, ACS; and Roktim Baruah, ACS, who joined in the ceremonial inauguration and interacted with stallholders.

Delivering the welcome address, Pranab Kumar Bora, ACS, remarked, “Akansha Haat is more than just a market. Each stall here represents a journey of resilience, creativity, and aspiration. These platforms allow local producers—especially women-led SHGs—to connect directly with consumers and forge sustainable livelihoods.”

The fair features over 50 stalls set up by SHGs from seven blocks of Cachar district, each showcasing a variety of handmade and locally-sourced products that reflect the skill and resourcefulness of rural artisans. The bustling marketplace drew enthusiastic footfall from residents eager to explore the rich diversity of homegrown goods.

Beyond commerce, Akansha Haat also doubles as a cultural platform. As the evening progressed, local performers took to the stage with traditional folk music and dance, reviving the artistic spirit of the Barak Valley. These cultural evenings aim not only to entertain but also to reconnect the youth with their regional heritage and instill pride in local traditions.

The district administration envisions Akansha Haat as more than an occasional event—it is a model of inclusive development where community participation aligns with policy direction to generate real opportunities. With robust participation from SHGs and an encouraging public response, the Haat stands as a testament to the power of local action and is poised to inspire similar initiatives across the region.

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