TRLM Plans Future-Ready Blueprint for SHG Empowerment
Agartala Dec 18: The Tripura government has renewed its focus on enhancing the capabilities of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by combining technical skills with strong managerial abilities to improve productivity and income opportunities.
Accordingly, the Tripura Rural Livelihood Mission (TRLM) is moving ahead with plans to establish a specialized techno-managerial support centre aimed at empowering selected progressive SHGs. The initiative seeks to provide SHG members with practical exposure to modern technologies while also strengthening their skills in planning, financial management and service delivery. After being trained, the SHGs would help other group members equipping them with the modern approach.
“TRLM, in collaboration with IIM Innovation Park, is preparing to launch a techno-managerial support facility for select progressive SHGs,” said TRLM Chief Operating Officer Dipayan Ghosh. He noted that the technical segment would concentrate on product innovation and production processes, while the managerial component would focus on timely execution, cost efficiency and operational effectiveness etc.
Officials opined that the proposed support mechanism is likely to enable SHGs to adopt advanced technologies and better management practices, especially in areas such as product design, branding, budgeting, marketing and market expansion, which would eventually result in increased income.
The changing strategy of TRLM is clearly reflected at the 20th Regional Saras Mela 2025, which was inaugurated on December 13. Compared to earlier editions, SHG participants this year appear more confident, organised and market-driven. The fair stands out for its innovative products and attractively designed stalls.
Food stalls, Janajati clothes, bamboo made products, Hyacinth made products just a few to note. Besides, dazzling display style with details of the SHGs is a good improvement.
A key crowd-puller is a tastefully designed and illuminated traditional tong ghar under the ‘Dhalai Natural’ brand, which promotes eco-friendly and natural food practices. Products like ruby-coloured Rosella Tea and nutritious Moringa Tea have attracted visitors, with the tong ghar emerging as a favoured place for rest and refreshment.
One of the key highlights of Saras Mela-2025 is its initiative to promote innovative products, with a strong focus on eco-friendliness and suitability for today’s fast-paced, urban-centric lifestyle. Earthen Pressure Cooker and Mushroom Box are two of the stand out products featured in the fair.
A total of 411 stalls have been set up, of which 382 are operated by Self-Help Groups (SHGs). A large number of SHGs operated by Janajati women added extra colour in the fair. The fair will continue till December 26.
