Imphal: Chief Minister Yumnam Khemchand Singh opened the 18th Saras Aajeevika Mela 2026 at the City Convention Centre in Imphal today. The event runs from October 27th through November 6th. More than 100 stalls feature goods crafted by members of Self-Help Groups. The Chief Minister toured the site after the ceremony.
Khemchand Singh noted that India sees a 5 per cent loan default rate among Self-Help Groups. Manipur reports a lower figure of 2 per cent. This indicates strong repayment discipline in the state. He urged banks to keep backing female entrepreneurs to meet a goal of 1 lakh Lakhpati Didis by 2029. Manipur currently supports 26,000.
The Chief Minister praised local women for their historical defiance against the British during Nupi Lal. He also pointed to the female-run Ima Market as a vital economic engine. He lauded the staff of the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission for their dedication. During the event, Commissioner of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Sumant Singh confirmed that Manipur leads the nation in female-owned businesses within the MSME sector.
Deputy Chief Minister Nemcha Kipgen joined via video link to discuss the project. She noted that the mela functions under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission. "SARAS Melas provide Self-Help Groups (SHGs) with opportunities to showcase and sell their products, connect with customers, and explore wider business opportunities."
The program included an interactive session where Lakhpati Didis shared stories of business growth. Attendees included the State Mission Director, NABARD officials, bankers, and SHG members.
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