BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 17th November 2026: Bamboo artisans and self-help group members across West Tripura are tapping local fairs as new avenues for income generation, according to officials and organisers.
At the Chira-Muri Utsav and Children’s Fair, organised by the Vivekananda Memorial Trust at Sekerkote, bamboo jewellery makers linked with Arkaneer—including artisans from Sekerkote and South Charilam—have set up stalls showcasing handcrafted ornaments. The fair, which opened on January 16 at the PM SHRI Sekerkote Higher Secondary School, features creations by artisans such as Rupali Sarkar and Rakhi Das Podder, both trained under the NB Institute for Rural Technology (NBIRT).
Officials said self-help groups supported by NBIRT’s Business Innovation Centre are also marketing bamboo-based utility items like torch lights and foot lamps. Beneficiaries of solar hybrid dryers have joined in, offering lemongrass oil produced from local cultivation—an attraction drawing steady interest from visitors.
Representatives of Arkaneer noted that winter fairs have become vital platforms for direct sales, helping artisans and producer groups supplement their earnings. This marks the second year of the initiative by the Vivekananda Memorial Trust and V.S.T., which will run until January 18.
Meanwhile, the Pitha-Puli Mela commenced on January 16 at Ballabhpur School ground in Amtali, alongside a children’s fair and a week-long rural cultural competition. Beneficiaries under the SUNIL project of the Department of Science and Technology are selling products processed with NBIRT-supplied hybrid solar dryers.
The “Om Namah Shivay” group has drawn attention with powdered spices and other food items. Group president Ranjuli Sinha said the response—particularly from women—has been encouraging due to the hygienic preparation of products. The mela will continue until January 22, after which the group plans to participate in another fair in Agartala.
Officials added that participation in multiple fairs has increased both workload and income prospects for the groups involved, underscoring the growing role of seasonal festivals in supporting rural livelihoods.
