The Damodar Saptah in Vasco usually has numerous makeshift stalls offering various items ranging from fashion accessories, garments and toys to sweets and traditional Goan furnitures.
But for a change, the huge centre of attraction of the fair has been the stall by Self Help Groups (SHGs), which has been supported by GSUDA and Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC).
The GSUDA and MMC have come together to create City Livelihood Centre (CLC) under the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) scheme for the very first time in the State.
This Urban Self Help Group exhibition stall has been offering products ranging from home made pickles, traditional sweets, jute bags, knitwear and infant clothing.
GSUDA Project Director Celsa Antao told The Goan that approximately 80 SHGs are registered with the MMC under the National Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) in Mormugao Taluka.
"However, due to space constraints, this stall could only showcase the products of 15 SHGs, which were chosen by lots. All the applicants who had come to showcase and market their products at the Saptah Fair were present during the selection of lots," said Antao.
Antao informed that the MMC has provided free space for the stall, while infrastructure like pandal, lights, fans, tables and chairs have been provided by GSUDA.
"In addition, the SHG will also get daily allowance of Rs 300 for travelling and TA/DA from the NULM," she added.
The turnover of these 15 SHGs during the last four days at the stall has been about Rs 1.6 lakh, with the highest collection from the Kalakruti SHG from Headland-Sada which has been selling jute bags and knitting items.
Another big contribution in the sales has come from Dabolim Mahila Paper Bag Masters.
The fastest selling product on display, however, has been the puran polis, which has been selling an average of 100 packets per day.
