Jharkhand chief secretary opens JIASOWA Diwali Mela, lauds Association’s welfare initiatives
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK Ranchi, October 29: Jharkhand Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar on Thursday inaugurated the JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 at Morabadi…
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, October 29: Jharkhand Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar on Thursday inaugurated the JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 at Morabadi Ground in Ranchi, praising the Jharkhand IAS Officers’ Wives Association (JIASOWA) for its social welfare initiatives and support for underprivileged sections of society.
Addressing the inaugural programme, the Chief Secretary said the fair was not merely about trade and profit but also about supporting those in need, promoting art and culture, and fulfilling social responsibilities.
He appreciated JIASOWA’s efforts to nurture the talents of children, including children with special needs, and provide them with opportunities for creative expression and overall development.
Chief Secretary Praises JIASOWA’s Social Initiatives
Avinash Kumar said the Diwali Mela provides artisans, craftspeople and artists from different parts of the country with a platform to showcase their skills and talent. It also offers visitors an opportunity to explore diverse artistic traditions, cultural practices and heritage while encouraging cultural exchange.
He said such public welfare initiatives could contribute to positive social change and emphasised the importance of continuing these efforts.
The Chief Secretary urged the organisers to ensure the smooth conduct of the fair with diligence, transparency and dedication. He also stressed the need to safeguard the interests of stall operators, artists and visitors.
₹45 Lakh for Development of Three District Libraries
As part of its educational initiatives, JIASOWA provided financial assistance of ₹15 lakh each for the development of libraries in Chaibasa, Deoghar and Dumka, amounting to a total of ₹45 lakh.
The assistance is intended to improve learning facilities and provide students with better resources for preparing for competitive examinations, developing knowledge and skills, and pursuing future opportunities.
₹1.92 Lakh Support for Children’s Education and Creativity
JIASOWA also extended financial assistance to support the creative and educational development of children with special needs.
Shreyashi Banerjee received ₹96,000 to provide music education to children who are deaf or hard of hearing and visually impaired.
Another ₹96,000 was provided to Swastika Banerjee to promote art and craft activities among children and encourage their creativity.
These initiatives reflect the association’s efforts to make education and creative learning more accessible to children.
Information and Public Relations Department Showcases Welfare Schemes
The Information and Public Relations Department has set up a stall at the fair to inform visitors about government welfare schemes and public initiatives.
Visitors can obtain publications related to government schemes free of charge. Short films and documentaries highlighting these initiatives are also being screened on an LED television.
Cultural Performances Draw Visitors Despite Rain
Despite rainfall, the Diwali Mela witnessed enthusiastic participation from visitors. Cultural performances, including a sitar and sarod jugalbandi, light music and dance presentations, attracted audiences.
A puppet show also emerged as a special attraction, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Mela Closing Date Changed to November 3
JIASOWA president Preeti Kumar announced that the closing date of the Diwali Mela 2026 had been shifted from November 2 to November 3 in view of the weather conditions and the possibility of further rainfall.
The decision was also taken to protect vendors participating in the fair from potential financial losses caused by adverse weather.
The extended schedule will provide additional time for visitors to explore the stalls and participate in the fair’s cultural activities.
