Lucknow: In a distinctive initiative led by Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya, rural families are set to brighten their Diwali celebrations with eco-friendly products crafted by women’s self-help groups (SHGs) under the Uttar Pradesh State Rural Livelihood Mission (UPSRLM). This effort not only brings joy to rural households but also provides them with a source of income during the festive season.
According to information from UPSRLM, a wide variety of traditional and eco-friendly products are being made by lakhs of women from thousands of groups across the state. These products, crafted for the festivals of Navratri, Dussehra, and Diwali, include items such as idols of Mata, Chunari, incense, lamps, vermillion, roli, dona pattal (leaf plates), apparel, incense sticks, havan samagri (ritual offerings), and prasad.
A key highlight of the initiative is the preparation of diyas (lamps) and idols of Lakshmi and Ganesh made from cow dung, a unique and eco-friendly product gaining popularity across districts. The demand for these natural products, particularly the diyas, is growing each year as more consumers seek sustainable options for their festive needs.
In addition to these products, gift hampers containing various handmade items are being prepared in different districts, aiming to bring a new kind of vibrancy to both rural and urban markets. Consumers are eager to purchase these gift hampers to share with family and friends during the festive season, helping spread the message of supporting rural artisans.
Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya emphasized the government’s commitment to empowering women through these initiatives, with a goal of transforming SHG members into “Lakhpati sisters”—women earning in lakhs. The work of the livelihood mission under Mission Shakti, aimed at women’s empowerment, was praised for playing a key role in realizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India. Maurya highlighted the importance of the participation of half the population in making this vision a reality.
Mission Director of UPSRLM, Deepa Ranjan, shared that efforts are also underway to provide dedicated spaces for these SHG products in religious sites and major markets across districts. The aim is to boost sales both through physical outlets and online platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. The initiative is expected to provide a significant income boost for the women involved, while also promoting sustainable, handmade goods to a wider audience.
This Diwali, with the introduction of cow dung diyas and eco-friendly products, the state is set to embrace a brighter, greener, and more inclusive celebration.
