Sri Vijaya Puram, Jan. 29: The Chief Secretary, A&N Administration, Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, inaugurated the ‘Avsar SHG Sales Counter’ today, marking a significant milestone in empowering Self Help Groups (SHGs) of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands Rural Livelihood Mission (ANIRLM). The event held at the Departure Conclave of VSI Airport was attended by Shri Arjun Sharma, Secretary (RD), Shri Devender Yadav, Director of VSI, AAI and Smt. Sapna Priya, Director (RD).

This newly established sales counter is the second such initiative allotted to the SHG members under the A&N Administration and AAI's collaboration. Located at the Departure Conclave, this counter offers a direct marketing platform where tourists can access and purchase a wide range of unique, locally made products crafted by the SHG members.

The Chief Secretary, while inaugurating the counter, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of A&N Administration and AAI in providing SHGs with valuable opportunities for economic growth. "This Sales Counter at the Departure Conclave will not only boost the visibility of our local artisans but also provide tourists with a chance to take home a piece of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands' rich cultural heritage," he remarked.

The Secretary of RD acknowledged the importance of providing Self Help Groups with marketing platforms that not only enhance their economic opportunities but also help preserve the unique cultural identity of the Islands.

The Director, VSI Airport emphasized the significance of this initiative in providing a space where SHG members can directly engage with visitors, making their products accessible to a wider audience. “We are pleased to facilitate such an initiative, which supports the local economy and showcases the creativity and hard work of our community members," he said.

The SHG members expressed their gratitude for the opportunity, highlighting that this new sales counter will open doors to a wider customer base and will significantly contribute to their financial independence. The AVSAR SHG Sales Counter is a beacon of hope for the local Self-Help Groups, providing a direct marketing channel and opening new avenues for their products. It is expected to foster a stronger local economy while promoting the cultural richness of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.