BMC’s Women’s Self-Help Exhibition Draws Enthusiastic Response at Civic Headquarters

Commissioner Bhushan Gagrani and Additional Commissioner Ashwini Joshi praise women’s groups and special children participating in Diwali-themed fair

Mumbai, October 16 (Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation) — The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) hosted a vibrant exhibition at its headquarters today, showcasing products made by women’s self-help groups (SHGs) from across Mumbai. The event, organized ahead of Diwali, received an overwhelming response from civic officials, employees, and visitors.

Municipal Commissioner and Administrator Bhushan Gagrani, along with Additional Municipal Commissioner (City) Dr. Ashwini Joshi, visited the exhibition and interacted with participants. The initiative was held under the Women and Child Welfare Scheme and the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Livelihood Mission, coordinated by BMC’s Planning Department to promote women’s empowerment and self-reliance.

A total of 40 stalls displayed handmade items including incense sticks, jute bags, imitation jewelry, pearl ornaments, rangoli, perfumes, dresses, decorative diyas, torans, lanterns, bamboo crafts, and various food products. The exhibition provided valuable income opportunities for women’s groups during the festive season.

Dr. Prachi Jambhekar, Director (Planning), noted that the response was “exceptionally encouraging,” with a steady flow of visitors throughout the day.

A heartwarming highlight was the participation of special children from Nare Park Special School, Parel — Rudra Jadhav and Dakshesh Pawar — who set up their own stall featuring handcrafted lanterns and painted diyas. Commissioner Gagrani and Dr. Joshi personally interacted with the students, commending their creativity and purchasing their items, a gesture that lit up the children’s faces with joy.

The initiative reflects BMC’s continued commitment to inclusive economic empowerment, festive community engagement, and the promotion of local artisanship.