Special initiative to support disaster-affected families sees strong public response
Munish Sood
MANDI: The Diwali Mandav Him-Era Livelihood Fair being held at Indira Market in Mandi is getting an overwhelming response from locals and visitors alike. The fair, which began on October 15, is a special initiative by the district administration to support families whose livelihoods were severely affected by the recent natural disasters in Himachal Pradesh.
The four-day fair, organised under the National and State Rural Livelihood Missions with active participation from self-help groups (SHGs) across 14 development blocks and the Indian Red Cross Society, is not just an exhibition of local products but an expression of solidarity, compassion and self-reliance.
Not just about shopping, but sensitivity and cooperation, says DC Apoorv Devgan
Mandi Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan, while inaugurating the fair, said, “This fair is not merely a place to shop for Diwali. It is a celebration of compassion, cooperation, and self-reliance. Our goal is to stand with those families whose livelihoods were disrupted by the natural calamity and help them regain financial stability through their own efforts.”
He added that the fair reflects the commitment of the administration to ensure that disaster-affected families are not just given relief, but real opportunities to rebuild their lives. “Every product you buy here directly supports a family working to restart its life,” he said.
Vibrant stalls and strong participation
The fair features 24 free stalls set up for SHGs and artisans from various parts of Mandi district. Products on display include beautifully crafted handloom items such as shawls, stoles, pattus, sweaters and blazers, as well as eco-friendly clay diyas, pine needle crafts, and a range of homemade delicacies like seera, bariyan, ghee, honey, millet-based foods, and festive sweets including kodre ke laddoo and nariyal barfi.
Visitors have been turning up in good numbers, appreciating both the craftsmanship and the purpose behind the fair. Local residents said the fair has added meaning to the festive season by encouraging people to “shop for a cause.”
Red Cross to host blood donation camp
The Indian Red Cross Society, Mandi, organised a blood donation camp today at the same venue. The Deputy Commissioner had appealed to NGOs, volunteers and citizens to come forward and contribute to this noble initiative.
On the sidelines of the fair, DC Apoorv Devgan also distributed wheelchairs to differently abled individuals through the Red Cross Society.
The fair has been widely lauded for its humane approach, blending festive cheer with social responsibility. By promoting the handmade products of disaster-hit families and self-help groups, the Mandi administration has set an inspiring example of inclusive recovery and sustainable livelihood promotion.
The fair will continue till October 19, offering citizens a meaningful way to celebrate Diwali by helping families rebuild their futures.
