SARAS Fair 2026 inaugurated at Kohima

The inaugural function of SARAS Fair 2026 was held at Khuochiezie (Local Ground), Kohima, on March 26. The fair will continue till March 31, open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.
Minister for Rural Development and SIRD, Metsubo Jamir, who attended the programme as the special guest, described the event as a vibrant celebration of the talent, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit of rural communities.
Having been associated with the National State Rural Livelihood Mission (NSRLM) since its inception, he said it was an honour to inaugurate the 11th Nagaland SARAS Fair.
He emphasised that SARAS Fair is not merely an exhibition but a movement that empowers Self-Help Groups (SHGs), uplifts rural livelihoods, and contributes to the vision of creating over 30,000 Lakhpati Didis, in line with the goal of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
He added that the fair provides a platform for rural producers and artisans to connect directly with markets, enabling wider outreach, including global opportunities.
Highlighting the richness of rural Nagaland, Jamir said the state has much to offer, from organic products and eco-friendly innovations to hand-woven textiles and traditional crafts.
He noted that each product represents the identity, creativity, and perseverance of rural communities and contributes to sustainable livelihoods. He further stated that around 1.30 lakh SHG women form the backbone of rural transformation in the state, playing a vital role in enhancing incomes and leading community development.
He also mentioned the government’s initiative to operationalise a seed fund for 1,000 women entrepreneurs to further promote women-led enterprises.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Jamir said various initiatives are being undertaken through departments such as NSRLM, MSME, and Industries to support capacity building, financial inclusion, market linkages, and skill development.
He also highlighted that over 9,000 youths have been skilled under the DDU-GKY programme, contributing to employment generation.
Describing SARAS Fair as a platform for learning and collaboration, he urged citizens to support local products and rural entrepreneurs, noting that such efforts contribute to building a self-reliant and prosperous Nagaland.
Earlier, the programme began with an invocation by Union Baptist Church, pastor, Kohima, Visato Yhoshü.
The minister formally inaugurated the fair and visited the stalls. The event also witnessed the distribution of laptops and printers to BC Sakhis.
Facilities to avail at the fair include: Medical Camp, Free NCD Screening, Aadhaar / FSSAI Registration, CMHIS Registration, Job Counselling, Free CMMFI & CMLIS Camp, and On-the-spot Udyam Registration.
Daily attractions include: Ethnic cuisine and fast-food stalls, Kids Play Zone, Entertainment evenings at 6 PM daily.
Highlights of the fair include: Products of Self-Help Groups under the Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission, Products of Self-Help Groups from other States, Products of partner Departments and local businesses, Job counselling.
The programme also includes dance competitions, culinary competitions, choral competitions, entertainment, and more.