Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Virendra Kumar inaugurated the Shilp Samagam Mela-2026 at ‘Vallabh Sadan’ on the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. This event celebrates self-reliance, dignity, and social empowerment. The Minister highlighted that since 2014, around 100 Shilp Samagam Melas have been organized to support marginalized artisans.
Ahmedabad, with its historical significance related to the freedom movement and prominent leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, serves as a fitting location for such an inclusive event. The Minister emphasized the importance of empowering artisans through such initiatives. He mentioned the SEED Scheme, which has established 5,581 Women Self-Help Groups across eight states to promote economic independence and entrepreneurship.
Under various schemes like the SEED Scheme, artisans are provided with financial support, skill training, and health benefits. The Minister also highlighted digital initiatives like the ‘PM-SURAJ Portal’ and ‘PM-DAKSH Portal’ that aim to enhance transparency and accessibility in welfare scheme delivery. These efforts are geared towards improving livelihood opportunities and economic empowerment among beneficiaries.
