Dhamtari: The district administration in Dhamtari has issued an appeal to celebrate the upcoming Deepawali festival with an indigenous spirit. The district collector Abhinash Mishra has directed all urban bodies in the district to ensure smooth sale of Diyas [clay lamps].
The collector has also directed official to ensure that the potters, selling the earthen lamps should face no inconvenience.
The collector has issued clear instruction that no taxes or fees should be levied on villagers and potters selling traditional Diyas in municipal corporation, municipal council and town council areas, informed the government in a statement.
The collector stressed that these traditional artisans are the bearers of our cultutal heritage and their handmade lamps are a hallmark of our folk art and traditions.
Mishra emphasised that it is the responsibility of the administration to encourage and boost the morale of these traditional artisans.
The administration it its appeal has stressed that the citizens should be encourage to use clay lamps and that the purchase of indigenous product should be promoted in the markets.
“Deepawali is not just a festival of lights, but also of self-reliance and self-respect. When we adopt local products, we not only strengthen our country’s economy but also provide livelihood opportunities for rural artisans,” said Mishra.
He further appealed to the people to priorities purchasing of earthen lamps instead of artificial lighting products made of plastics. He noted that the same will not only provide financial support to the local potters but also help in environment protection.
The administration has directed all municipal bodies to earmark areas for Diya vendors in local markets to ensure smooth selling of their products.
The initiative undertaken by the district administration is likely to boost the sale of homemade products during the upcoming festival, strengthening the spirit of ‘Vocal for Local’.
Earlier Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 31 also made a fervent appeal to citizens to celebrate the upcoming festive season with a spirit of Swadeshi, encouraging people to adopt the mantra of Vocal for Local and walk on the path of Aatmanirbhar Bharat as a step towards the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Delivering the 125th episode of ‘Mann Ki Baat’, the Prime Minister linked the festive fervour of Ganesh Utsav and other upcoming celebrations to the larger movement of promoting India-made goods. He urged people to proudly declare, “This is Swadeshi,” whenever they use or gift indigenous products.
“At this time, the whole country is celebrating the pomp and fervour of Ganesh Utsav. The radiance of many festivals will spread in the coming days. You should never forget Swadeshi during these festivals,” said PM Modi.
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