Sat Sharma, Ashok Koul inaugurate Swadeshi Mela at Srinagar, reaffirm commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Srinagar : Sat Sharma, President, J&K BJP and Rajya Sabha MP, accompanied by Ashok Koul, J&K BJP General Secretary (Organization) and other senior party leaders inaugurated the Swadeshi Mela at Polo View, Srinagar.
J&K BJP General Secretaries Sanjita Dogra, Anwar Khan, Secretaries Mudassir Wani and Arif Raja, District President Srinagar Salman Sheikh, Bilal Parray, and other party leaders were present on the occasion. Thousands of enthusiastic people from all walks of life thronged the venue, showcasing overwhelming public support and appreciation for the initiative.
In a strong push towards realizing the vision of a self-reliant India, the two-day Swadeshi Mela is being organized on December 20 and 21 with the objective of promoting indigenous products, local artisans, traditional skills, and cultural heritage.
The Swadeshi Mela featured an impressive display of Kashmiri handicrafts, artworks, Pashmina products, dry fruits, spices, pherans, carpets, silver jewelry, local cuisine, and vibrant folk music. The event aims to promote local culture, boost indigenous industries, and pave the way for an economically sustainable and self-reliant local society.
Addressing the gathering, while inaugurating the Mela, Sat Sharma said that the Swadeshi Mela is a living example of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, where local production, local markets, and local talent are strengthened to build a robust national economy. He said that Jammu and Kashmir has immense potential in handicrafts, handloom, agriculture-based products, and traditional arts, and such platforms provide much-needed market exposure to local artisans and entrepreneurs. When we buy local, we empower families, preserve our culture, and contribute to the economic growth of our society, he emphasized, urging people to actively support Swadeshi products.
Ashok Koul, speaking on the occasion, said that Swadeshi Melas play a crucial role in connecting artisans directly with consumers, eliminating middlemen, and ensuring fair returns for their hard work. He highlighted that the BJP remains committed to strengthening grassroots economy and promoting traditional skills, especially among youth and women. He said that cultural and economic revival go hand in hand, and initiatives like these help in preserving Jammu and Kashmir’s rich heritage while generating sustainable livelihoods.