Visitors make a beeline for special needs pavilion

CUTTACK: The special pavilion at Bali Yatra for self-help groups (SHGs) managed by differently-abled persons has turned out to be a huge hit among visitors.
In just three days, the pavilion has generated a revenue of Rs 3.5 lakh, bringing smiles to the faces of participants and district administration.
The bumper business has also boosted the confidence of the differently-abled artisans.At least 32 SHGs, from across Odisha and states such as Uttar Pradesh and Bihar managed and run by disabled persons, have taken part in the fair.
Products such as paintings, candles, craft items, agarbatti, dresses, jute bags, embroidered materials, pattachitra, soft toys, appliqué work and household items made by differently-abled persons have found many takers and the articles are flying off the shelves.
Bali Yatra started on Thursday and on the first day, the pavilion earned Rs 55,000 while on the second day it generated a revenue of Rs 1.45 lakh. On the third day, it was more than Rs 1.5 lakh.
"Last year, the pavilion for differently-abled persons had earned Rs 12 lakh in revenue but this year's business will surpass that figure," said additional district welfare officer Ashok Mishra.
The pavilion was started in 2012 with an aim to include differently-abled persons in the mainstream and also to create awareness about the needs of disabled persons.
"We feel our effort has yielded the desired result, as in the last three years, the pavilion has provided job opportunities to many disabled persons," added Mishra.
The response of visitors towards the pavilion was most favourable.
"The products showcased at the special pavilion are simply splendid. The finishing and quality of the products is very good and no one can say that these have been made by blind artisans," said Sarita Satpathy, who bought agarbattis made by visually challenged persons. Many SHGs are planning expansion after getting so much appreciation.
"Thirty disabled women work in my SHG and earn their livelihood by making agarbattis and candles. Bali Yatra has instilled confidence in them and I plan to participate in fairs organized outside Odisha as well," said Manjari Sahoo, head of a Keonjhar-based SHG.
"The pavilion has given us an opportunity to showcase our talent and prove our mettle. We don't want sympathy from people, instead we just need respect and compassion," said Ambika Mohanty, a polio stricken appliqué artisan.