SARD organized a Self Help Group Mela at Bansi Paharpur Village of Bharatpur district on January 10. The function was attended by over a thousand men and women of Bansi Paharpur and nearby villages. The event focused on the various schemes initiated by SARD for empowerment of the local populace in the recent past.

The mela demonstrated how SARD, through its special drive was able to economically empower the women of Bansi Paharpur, a considerable number of whom are widows as their men folk succumbed to silicosis- a disease caused by cutting, loading and chiseling of the stones in mines.

The chief guest Mr. PK Goel, Divisional Commissioner was greatly appreciative of SARD’s programs in the area. He remarked that SARD has not only demonstrated how a remote and economically poor village could be transformed and brought into the mainstream, but has also inspired others to take up the similar cause. He also promised to extend all the possible help for the empowerment of the women. Expressing similar sentiments Mr. Sushil Kumar Singhvi, Chairman, Rajasthan Gramin Bank, Jaipur also promised to help the farmers in all possible ways.