To provide rural artisans with an opportunity to showcase and sell their works, a national handicrafts mela titled SARAS is being organised by the Union Ministry of Rural Development at the Rajindra College here from February 11 to 22.The timing will be 11.00 a.m to 8.00 p.m.

SARAS stands for the sale of articles of rural artisans' society. The 12-day fair would attract artisans, self-help-groups and NGOs from across the country helping them to put on display the culture, art, craft and heritage of India.

Besides, a number of cultural activities showcasing the diverse Indian culture would be held, informed the organisers. They estimate the total expenditure on the fair at nearly Rs 30 lakh. Of this, the Union ministry would be spending Rs 20 lakh while the district administration will bear the remaining cost.

To collect funds for the purpose, the administration has planned to allot about 15 stalls for commercial purposes and arrange entertainment activities like swings. Besides, a visitor will have to shell out Rs 10 for entry ticket. Free entry is permissible to students.

Different groups from 25 states have confirmed to set up 185 stalls to exhibit handicraft, bamboo work, carpets, wooden furniture, food products, etc. Besides, special emphasis is being paid to homemade food products and space had also been provided for organising a food festival.

Though the fair would start on February 11, it would be formally inaugurated the next day by Chief Parliament Secretary Jagdeep Singh Nakai and presided over by Divisional Commissioner (Faridkot) Raminder Singh.

Preparations underway for the SARAS, a national handicrafts fair, at the Government Rajindra College in Bathinda on Wednesday.