TURA: This is the first time that Saras Fair has been organised alongside the Wangala Festival because the Department of Industries did not have fund to organise it.
Till last year, the Saras Fair was organised at a different venue.
Lockslet Momin, chairman of the Wangala Committee, said they were approached because the industries department “did not get sanction” this year.
The ex-officio secretary of 100 Drums Wangala, who is also the BDO of Rongram, said that along with a few members of the 100 Drums Wangala Committee had then approached the DC if the district administration can help out for the exhibition to be held as an exhibition has always been held along with Wangala.
“With Saras and Wangala together, many people from Garo Hills, as well as outside the state, are visiting the fair,” said Momin.
But the new arrangement is a “welcome change” for many stall owners at Saras.
Gabriel D Sangma of Dambo Rongjeng self-help group from East Garo Hills said last year sales were abysmally less as “people would just visit the stalls, take photographs and then go away”.
“This year we have made good sales in the last two days as the footfall has been good thanks to Wangala. It is profitable,” he added.
Rita Marak, member of the Mahila self-help group from Asanang, agreed.
According to her, Saras should be tagged with Wangala every year as this will help self-help groups.
When asked whether the arrangement is permanent, chairman Momin said, “I don’t know. The arrangement may change next year. Yes, I heard (about high sales) but we have to consult the department to have it at this venue next year.”
Deputy Commissioner Ram Singh said last year the feedback from participants was not good so “we requested the government for this venue”.
“Now, it will be a standard practice to hold Saras with the Wangala. This will help the rural women and self-help groups. We are also planning to expand NRLM to all districts,” Singh said.
