Writer by sanjoy gorh 27.02.2026 Time 3.00 PM Published
the bustling heart of Gurugram’s Leisure Valley Ground, four determined women from a quiet village in Assam turned heads and captured hearts. Ramdhenu Self Help Group (SHG) from Nirmali village in Dibrugarh district clinched the Best Food Stall Award in the overall food category at the prestigious National SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2026. Held from February 10 to 26, this wasn’t just another fair it was India’s biggest stage for rural women-led enterprises, where over 450 stalls from 28 states competed fiercely
The mela, organized by the Ministry of Rural Development under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana–National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), drew more than 900 women entrepreneurs. It generated a staggering ₹14.5 crore in total sales, proving that rural India is ready for the national market. Ramdhenu SHG stood out among 46 food stalls representing 24 states, delivering not just delicious bites but an unforgettable taste of Assam’s soul.
The Journey of Ramdhenu SHG: From Village Roots to National Glory
Ramdhenu SHG, nurtured under the Assam State Rural Livelihoods Mission (ASRLM), represents the quiet revolution sweeping rural Northeast India. Led by Smt. Bobi Gogoi Dutta, Smt. Full Hazarika, Smt. Ronu Borah, and Smt. Minati Borah, the group transformed traditional Assamese recipes into a professionally presented stall that blended authenticity with modern market savvy.
Over 17 days, they recorded impressive sales of ₹1.62 lakh. Judges evaluated stalls on hygiene, food safety, presentation, customer engagement, and overall experience. Ramdhenu excelled in every parameter. Their stall featured vibrant gamusa patterns, warm hospitality, and a menu that celebrated Assam’s rich culinary heritage — from aromatic regional dishes and beverages to time-honored flavors that told stories of the Brahmaputra valley.
This wasn’t luck. It was the result of rigorous training in food processing, packaging, hygiene standards, and customer service provided by ASRLM. In a competitive environment where thousands of visitors sampled diverse cuisines daily, Ramdhenu’s cultural branding and consistent quality set them apart.
Why This Win Is a Game-Changer for Assam’s SHG Movement
Self Help Groups have long been the backbone of rural empowerment in India. Under DAY-NRLM, they have evolved from micro-credit circles into thriving micro-enterprises. In Assam, ASRLM has mobilized lakhs of women across 33 districts, turning them into producers, processors, and marketers.
Ramdhenu’s victory highlights three powerful truths:
- Assamese cuisine is finding national love. Traditional flavors, once confined to local homes, now command respect in urban markets when presented with professionalism.
- Rural women are redefining entrepreneurship. Skills in branding, display, and service are now as vital as cooking itself.
- Cultural identity sells. By showcasing gamusa motifs and authentic presentation, Ramdhenu proved that rootedness can be a competitive edge.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma publicly congratulated the group, calling it a proud moment for the state. The award was presented by a senior official from the Ministry of Rural Development, underscoring top-level recognition. For policymakers, this success validates years of investment in training, market linkages, and infrastructure for SHGs.
Broader Impact: Economic Empowerment at the Grassroots
For the four women and their families, ₹1.62 lakh means more than revenue it signals financial independence, dignity, and hope. In Nirmali village, Barbaruah block, this achievement inspires neighboring SHGs to dream bigger.
Nationally, SARAS Aajeevika Melas serve as launchpads. Winners often see sustained demand, invitations to other exhibitions, and opportunities for e-commerce integration. For Ramdhenu SHG, the road ahead could include ready-to-eat Assamese packaged products, collaborations with food chains, or even exports.
This win aligns perfectly with India’s vision of “Lakhpati Didis” women SHG members earning over ₹1 lakh annually. With structured support in advanced food processing, digital marketing, and quality certification, more groups like Ramdhenu can scale successfully.
Lessons for Aspiring Rural Entrepreneurs Across India
Ramdhenu’s story offers a blueprint:
- 1. Master the basics: Hygiene, presentation, and consistent quality win trust.
- 2. Leverage your heritage: Cultural authenticity differentiates in crowded markets.
- 3. Invest in training: Government schemes like DAY-NRLM provide free skill-building — use them.
- 4. Think scale: Start local, but prepare for national and digital platforms.
Other SHGs in Assam and beyond can replicate this model. From poultry farming to handloom and organic produce, ASRLM success stories show that collective effort yields extraordinary results.
FAQ:
Q1: What award did Ramdhenu SHG win?
They won the Best Food Stall Award in the overall food category at the National SARAS Aajeevika Mela 2026.
Q2: How much did they sell?
₹1.62 lakh over the 17-day event (February 10–26, 2026).
Q3: Where is Ramdhenu SHG located?
Nirmali village, Barbaruah Block, Dibrugarh district, Assam. They operate under ASRLM.
Q4: Who organizes the SARAS Aajeevika Mela?
The Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, under DAY-NRLM.
Q5: What made their stall stand out?
Excellent hygiene, food safety, cultural presentation with gamusa motifs, warm service, and authentic Assamese flavors.
Conclusion
Ramdhenu SHG’s triumph is more than an award it is living proof that when preparation meets opportunity, geography becomes irrelevant. Four women from a small Assamese village travelled to Gurugram carrying recipes, discipline, and dreams. They returned as national champions.
In an era where rural narratives often focus on challenges, this story shines a light on solutions. It celebrates the quiet strength of India’s women, the richness of regional cuisines, and the transformative power of self-help groups.
As India pushes toward Atmanirbhar Bharat, victories like Ramdhenu’s remind us that the real engine of growth lies in villages — powered by women who refuse to be limited by circumstances. Their success is Assam’s pride, India’s inspiration, and a blueprint for millions of aspiring “lakhpati didis” nationwide.
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