Guwahati: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) today inaugurated Grameen Bharat Mahotsav: North-East 2025 – Fostering Heritage, Creating Livelihood at the Ganesh Mandir Indoor Stadium Ground, Khanapara. Organised by NABARD Assam Regional Office, the ten-day exhibition-cum-sale will continue till December 29, aiming to strengthen market access and sustainable livelihoods for rural artisans, weavers, and micro-entrepreneurs across the North Eastern Region.
The Mahotsav features around 80 stalls showcasing products from over 120 rural producers supported by NABARD, including handlooms, handicrafts, GI-tagged products, start-up innovations, and micro-enterprise offerings. The exhibition provides visitors an opportunity to engage directly with artisans, while giving producers exposure to consumer preferences and national markets.
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During the inaugural programme, NABARD felicitated outstanding contributors to Assam’s cultural and craft heritage. Padmashree Drona Bhuyan was honoured for his efforts in preserving Ojapali and Deodhoni Nritya, while Bapukan Payeng, National Handicrafts Award winner from Majuli, was recognised for promoting Mising heritage textiles.
Speaking at the event, Loken Das, Chief General Manager, NABARD Assam Regional Office, said, “Grameen Bharat Mahotsav reflects NABARD’s long-standing commitment to rural producers. By creating direct market linkages and celebrating traditional knowledge, we support incomes and ensure heritage-based livelihoods remain sustainable.”
Cultural programmes, including Ojapali and Deodhoni performances and a tribute to music icon Zubeen Garg, will be held each evening. The inaugural function was attended by B. Kalyan Chakravarthy, Additional Chief Secretary, Assam, along with Dilip Kr Bora, PVSLN Murthy, and H. K. Boro as Guests of Honour. The Mahotsav exemplifies NABARD’s efforts to merge culture, enterprise, and community, fostering inclusive rural development through heritage-sensitive, market-driven initiatives.
