Libraries in Chaibasa, Deoghar and Dumka Receive ₹15 Lakh Each; Financial Assistance Extended for Special Children’s Education
Ranchi, October 29, 2026: Jharkhand Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar inaugurated the JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 at Morabadi Ground in Ranchi on Thursday. Organised by the Jharkhand IAS Officers’ Wives Association (JIASOWA), the event highlights the organisation’s commitment to social welfare and public service.
On the occasion, the Chief Secretary appreciated JIASOWA’s initiatives for the welfare of society and said that the objective of the Diwali Mela was not merely commercial activity or profit-making, but also to provide financial assistance to the needy and contribute to the well-being of underprivileged sections of society.
The Chief Secretary said the JIASOWA Diwali Mela serves as an important platform for promoting education, encouraging talent, preserving art and culture, and fulfilling social responsibilities. He appreciated the organisation’s efforts to nurture the talents of children, including children with special needs, and engage them in creative activities.
He added that the fair provides artisans, craftsmen and artists from different parts of the country with an opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity. It also serves as an important platform for exploring diverse regional arts, cultures and traditions while promoting cultural exchange.
The Chief Secretary urged the organisers to ensure the smooth conduct of the fair with dedication, transparency and commitment. He also emphasised the need to safeguard the interests of stall operators, artists and visitors.
₹15 Lakh Each for Libraries in Three Districts
To promote education and improve access to learning facilities, JIASOWA provided financial assistance of ₹15 lakh each for the development of libraries in Chaibasa, Deoghar and Dumka.
The assistance is expected to help students prepare for competitive examinations, enhance their knowledge and skills, and access better opportunities in the future.
In addition, financial assistance of ₹96,000 was provided to Shreyashi Banerjee to support music education for children with hearing and speech impairments and visually impaired children.
Another ₹96,000 was granted to Swastika Banerjee to promote art and craft activities and encourage creativity among children.
Information and Public Relations Department Showcases Government Schemes
A stall set up by the Information and Public Relations Department at the fair is providing visitors with information about various public welfare schemes of the Jharkhand government.
Publications related to government schemes are being distributed free of cost. Short films and documentaries highlighting these schemes are also being screened on an LED television to raise public awareness.
Cultural Performances Attract Visitors Despite Rain
Despite the rain, enthusiasm among visitors remained high at the JIASOWA Diwali Mela. Cultural programmes featuring a jugalbandi of sitar and sarod, light music performances, and dance presentations captivated the audience. A puppet show also emerged as a special attraction at the event.
JIASOWA Diwali Mela to Conclude on November 3
The concluding date of the JIASOWA Diwali Mela 2026 has been revised in view of the prevailing weather conditions and the possibility of further rainfall.
JIASOWA President Preeti Kumar announced that the closing date has been extended from November 2 to November 3, 2026, to help protect vendors participating in the fair from potential financial losses.
