NEW DELHI: Taking another step toward rural development and women empowerment, the Punjab government has launched ‘Pehel Mart’, a new initiative under the Punjab State Rural Livelihoods Mission (PSRLM).
The mart was inaugurated at the Punjab Civil Secretariat by Rural Development and Panchayat Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond.
The initiative is designed to recognize rural talent, boost entrepreneurship, and make women financially self-reliant. Women from Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will directly connect with customers, showcasing their handcrafted products including Phulkari, Punjabi Juttis, handmade suits, honey, pickles, squashes, oils, spices, papad, soaps, murabbas, and candles.
Minister Sond said “Pehel Mart is proof of the Punjab government’s commitment to rural development and women empowerment. This platform will inspire thousands of rural women to stand on their own feet and give a new direction to their families and society.”
Senior officials including Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha and Administrative Secretary Ajit Balaji Joshi attended the inauguration. They noted that the mart would bring rural women’s products directly to urban markets, ensuring better income and wider recognition for their skills.
With this launch, the Punjab government expects economic progress, social change, and sustainable livelihoods in rural communities. The initiative further highlights the Mann government’s resolve to provide every Punjabi—especially women and villagers—a better, self-sufficient future.
