Imphal: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh today inaugurated the 18th Saras Aajeevika Mela 2026 at the City Convention Centre, Imphal which will be held from October 27th to November 6th, 2026.
Addressing the gathering, Khemchand Singh stated that the loan default rate among Self-Help Groups (SHGs) stands at an average of 5 per cent in India, while Manipur has recorded a lower rate of only 2 per cent, reflecting the State’s comparatively better performance in loan repayment.
Highlighting the role of banks in promoting women entrepreneurship in the State, Khemchand Singh stated that Manipur currently has 26,000 Lakhpati Didis and aims to increase the number to 1 lakh by 2029. He emphasised that the target can be achieved only with the support and cooperation of banks.
The Chief Minister stated that women in Manipur have actively participated in the State’s socio-political causes from time to time. He added that during Nupi Lal, women of Manipur fought against the British regime.
He recalled that women in Manipur have been shouldering various responsibilities and contributing to the State’s economy at the same time.
Khemchand Singh added, that the Ima Market, which is run exclusively by women, sells a wide range of products, including daily essential commodities, thereby contributing significantly to the State’s economy.
The Chief Minister lauded the staff of Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM) for their utmost responsibility in carrying out their duties.
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen who attended the inauguration through video conferencing stated that the Sale of Articles of Rural Artisans Society (SARAS) is a flagship market-promotion initiative under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), aimed at empowering rural women and promoting women-led enterprises.
She highlighted that SARAS Melas provide Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with opportunities to showcase and sell their products, connect with customers, and explore wider business opportunities.
Commissioner, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (RD & PR) Sumant Singh state that upon research on the contribution by women in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in Manipur, it was found that Manipur holds the 1st position in terms of the businesses owned by the women. He added, such mela would enhance the income of SHGs members, by promoting rural entrepreneurship, strengthen market linkages and encourage product renovation etc.
During the programme, an interactive session was held with the Lakhpati Didis, who expressed their happiness over the support extended by the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM) and shared how they have been flourishing in their respective businesses to support their livelihoods.
The Chief Minister inspected the stalls which were set up in connection to the inauguration. More than 100 stalls were set up featuring products made by Self-Help Group (SHG) women.
The inaugural programme was attended by State Mission Director (SMD)- MSRLM; General Manager (NABARD), Self Help Groups members, Bankers, Lakhpati Didis and staff of MSRLM among others.
