The Rural Roots Market opened its doors on Wednesday at the Khangabok New Market Complex, Thoubal, drawing crowds eager to experience the best of local, women-led entrepreneurship. The two-day event, organized by the Yainubi Cluster Level Federation and promoted by the Manipur State Rural Livelihoods Mission (MSRLM), celebrates the creativity, resilience, and economic empowerment of women Self Help Groups (SHGs).
Women at the Heart of Local Enterprise
At the market, SHG members showcased and sold a diverse range of products — from handmade crafts and textiles to organic vegetables and homemade food items. With no middlemen in the process, every rupee earned went directly into the hands of the women who produced the goods. The initiative highlights the growing push to ensure fair income opportunities and self-reliance for rural women.
Dignitaries Laud the Initiative
Gracing the inaugural event, Smt. Hannah Kahmei, IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Thoubal, underlined the importance of grassroots markets in reshaping rural livelihoods.
“This initiative is more than just a marketplace. It is about creating sustainable income opportunities and uplifting rural women who are the backbone of our economy,” she said, praising the dedication of SHG members from across the district.
MLA Surjakumar Okram, President Thangjam Rediya Devi (Yainubi CLF), ADC A. Amarjit Sharma, and other district officers also attended the ceremony, extending their support and encouragement to the participants.
A Platform for Pride and Progress
The Rural Roots Market isn’t just an economic event; it’s also a cultural celebration. Shoppers experienced the vibrancy of rural craftsmanship and agriculture, while SHG members took pride in presenting their creations directly to the community.
For many visitors, the event was a refreshing reminder of the quality and authenticity of local products — a clear alternative to mass-produced goods. For the women entrepreneurs, it was a chance to build networks, gain visibility, and reinvest earnings back into their communities.
Looking Ahead
With growing interest from the public, officials hinted that such platforms could be made more frequent and even expanded to other districts. The model reflects a sustainable approach to rural development — one that places women at the forefront of economic change.
As the stalls buzzed with activity, the Rural Roots Market stood as proof of what happens when policy support, community participation, and women’s entrepreneurship come together.