The town of Ropar is all set to play host to this year’s national Saras (Sale of Articles of Rural Artisans Societies) fair to be held at Nehru Stadium from October 1 to 12.

Disclosing this on Thursday, Ropar Deputy Commissioner Priyank Bharti said the 12-day long exhibition-cum-fair would commence at 10 am on October 1 and remain open from 9 am to 8 pm. Lively cultural programmes in the evenings by artistes from different states will be a major attraction of the mega event, Bharti said.

He added that the Union Ministry of Rural Development organises the unique fair every year to facilitate the Special Swarnajayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojna (SGSY) beneficiaries, rural artisans, craftpersons, self help groups (SHGs) and NGOs from across the country to exhibit and sell their impressive range of rural wares and products on a wider platform.

Bharti further said that residents, who seek good quality handicrafts, handlooms and other artwork, would be provided with an opportunity to see the works from across the country under one roof.

The fair also ensures that craftsmen and consumers are face to face with each other, without any middleman exploiting them to make a quick buck.

A food court would also be set up at the fair in order to tickle the taste buds of food connoisseurs.

“Care has also been taken to provide entertainment for children by allowing various rides. The fair is expected to get a good response from people of the area as a Diwali mela would also be organised at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Bagh,” he added.