Handicrafts, handlooms, and varied range of natural food items are the key attractions at the Saras Ajeevika Mela, inaugurated today at the India International Trade Fair underway at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.<br />'' <br />''Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Secretary of, Ministry of Rural Development, Shailesh Kumar Singh said that the government has taken several initiatives to empower rural women. He said, the Saras Ajeevika Mela has enabled women to become entrepreneurs as well as contribute to the economic development of the country. He further added, that over 300 women from the self-help groups of all 28 states and 8 union territories are participating in the mela.<br />'' <br />''<span style="color: #222222;">Talking to Akashvani News, Mr Singh said that the Deen Dayal Antyodya Yojana and Rashtriya Gramin Ajeevika Mission started by the government has emerged as significant schemes in providing livelihood to rural women.</span><br />