JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 Inaugurated in Ranchi, Rs 45 Lakh Allocated for Three District Libraries

Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar inaugurates JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 in Ranchi. The event, organised by the Jharkhand IAS Officers' Wives Association, is not just a festive shopping destination but also a platform for social welfare, education, cultural promotion and support for underprivileged children.

The Diwali Mela was inaugurated on Thursday, October 29, at Morabadi Ground in Ranchi. During the inaugural ceremony, Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar appreciated JIASOWA's efforts towards social welfare and community development. He said the mela goes beyond commercial activities and provides an opportunity to fulfil important social responsibilities, encourage traditional art forms and support people from underprivileged backgrounds.

He particularly highlighted the association's initiatives for children with special needs. According to him, providing opportunities for these children to participate in creative activities and develop their talents is an important step towards inclusive growth.

The Chief Secretary also appreciated the participation of artisans, craftsmen and artists from different parts of the country. The mela gives them a platform to display their products, skills and traditional art forms while encouraging cultural exchange.

He urged the organisers to ensure that the event runs smoothly and that the interests of stall owners, artists and visitors are properly protected.

Rs 45 lakh allocated for three district libraries

An important highlight of this year's mela is JIASOWA's contribution towards education. The association has extended financial assistance of Rs 15 lakh each to libraries in Chaibasa, Deoghar and Dumka. The total assistance of Rs 45 lakh is expected to improve library facilities and help students access better learning resources and prepare for competitive examinations.

The association has also extended financial support to promote education and creative activities among children with special needs.

A sum of Rs 96,000 has been provided to Shreyashi Banerjee for music education among hearing-impaired and visually impaired children. Another Rs 96,000 has been sanctioned for Swastika Banerjee to encourage art and craft activities among children and nurture their creativity.

Government schemes on display at the mela

The Information and Public Relations Department has also set up a dedicated stall at the venue. Visitors can get information about various government welfare schemes and initiatives. Booklets and magazines highlighting government programmes are being distributed free of cost. Short films and documentaries are also being screened on LED displays to spread awareness about government schemes.

Cultural programmes continue despite rainfall

Rainfall did little to dampen the enthusiasm of visitors at the JIASOWA Diwali Mela. Several cultural performances kept the audience engaged, including a sitar and sarod jugalbandi, light music and dance performances. A puppet show also emerged as one of the major attractions for visitors.

Mela closing date extended to November 3

Meanwhile, JIASOWA President Preeti Kumar has announced an extension of the mela's closing date. Earlier scheduled to conclude on November 2, the event will now continue until November 3, 2026.

The decision was taken in view of the prevailing weather conditions and the possibility of further rainfall. The association said the extension would help protect participating vendors from potential financial losses caused by the weather.

With its combination of festive shopping, cultural performances and social welfare initiatives, the JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 is bringing together celebration and community service in Ranchi.

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