SELCO Foundation, the Planning and Programme Implementation Department, Govt of Mizoram, Northeast Initiative Development Agency (NEIDA) and Mizoram Science, Technology and Innovation Council (MISTIC) successfully concluded the Mizoram Trade Facilitation Fair at the Millenium Centre, Aizawl on the other day showcasing over 15+ innovations under their Incubation program. Hon’ble Minister Dr. R Lalthangliana, (Commerce & Industries Dept., Health & Family Welfare, Higher & Technical Education), Govt. of Mizoram, inaugurated the event by running the Eri Spinning machine, innovated by Saraswati Hasta Tat Silpa, an enterprise incubated under AIC- Selco Foundation, symbolizing the journey towards achieving the SDGs.
He added that “Technologies displayed here are simple & do not require a lot of training to operate & people can use them. This first of a kind trade facilitation fair is a very significant and remarkable initiative”. The event cum trade fair was a combination of demonstrations, interactive learning sessions and collaborative discussions with over 25+ solar powered solutions on display, planned with an aim to showcase simple technology innovations that can be easily used by small farmers and entrepreneurs in Mizoram for better livelihood opportunities.
Some of the technologies incubated under AIC-Selco that were on display at the event include egg incubators, paddy thresher, smart looms, broom making machine, incense stick making machine, areca nut dehusking machine etc. This trade fair gave them a platform and opportunity to get introduced in a new market and get linkages that will be beneficial for both vendors and end users. Rachita Misra, Director of AIC-Selco Foundation while setting the context of the fair said “Mizoram has unique opportunities to innovate on solutions. It starts with that one person whose daily activities are hampered because of energy. ” The event was also attended by Mayor Lalrinenga Sailo and other dignitaries from the Department of Agriculture, MRB, NEDFI, Mizoram University, NEIDA and MISTIC.
