Chandigarh, October 1:
In a major push towards empowering rural women and promoting traditional craftsmanship, the Punjab State Rural Livelihood Mission (PSRLM) today unveiled “PEHEL Mart” – an exclusive marketplace dedicated to handmade and organic products crafted by Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from every corner of rural Punjab.
The Mart was inaugurated at the Main Punjab Civil Secretariat, Sector 1, Chandigarh, by Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond alongwith
Chief Secretary Punjab KAP Sinha and Ajit Balaji Joshi, Administrative Secretary, Rural Development & Panchayats.
Conceived as a vibrant showcase of rural creativity and enterprise, “PEHEL Mart” promises visitors an authentic experience of Punjab’s rich heritage, offering an array of sustainable and organic products that reflect the dedication and innovation of rural artisans. This initiative is designed not only to facilitate direct market access for SHG products but also to spark a greater movement for self-sufficiency, economic upliftment, and gender empowerment in rural communities. Main products available at mart are Phulkari, Suits, Juttis, Honey, Pickles, Squash, Vinegar, Oils, Masalas, Wheat flour, Papad, Soaps, Candles etc.
Sond lauded the Mart as a meaningful stride towards self-reliance, rural development, and women’s empowerment. “PEHEL Mart stands as a testament to the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Punjab’s rural women. It will play a pivotal role in enabling SHGs to reach new markets and become drivers of sustainable growth,” he remarked.
He expressed hope that this platform would motivate more women to embrace self-employment, thus advancing community prosperity.
Senior officials from the Rural Development & Panchayats Department including Joint Development Commissioner Shena Aggarwal, CEO PSRLM Varjeet Walia, ACEO PSRLM Rupali Tandon, and Secretary General Administration Gauri Parasher Joshi, enthusiastic SHG members graced the occasion, collectively applauding the indomitable spirit of rural women entrepreneurs.
With PEHEL Mart, PSRLM reaffirms its unwavering commitment to nurturing rural talent, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and championing the cause of women’s empowerment in Punjab.
