IRDP Onam mela begins

The IRDP Onam mela began here on Thursday with a

vibrant array of products from various panchayats in the district and the

neighbouring districts of Idukki, Palakkad and Alappuzha.Bamboo and cane products, a variety of

vegetable pickles and spices are some of the highlights of the fest that is on

at the Ernakulathappan Ground.Apart from the traditional coconut

ladles and spoons, showpieces and kitchenware made out of coconut wood are the

new product trends.

Jugs made of coconut husks and vessels

made of coconut wood are displayed along with the traditional mud vessels. Different varieties of honey, spices

and condiments, tea , ‘pokkali’ rice, medicinal herbs and tonics, natural

beauty products, jams and squashes, are also on display.

The mela also spotted products like

sandals, cotton sarees, night wear and so on.The officials pointed out that it was

becoming difficult to source some of the traditional products.“The bamboo products are becoming

increasingly difficult to source. This is in spite of the fact that many

of the authentic rural products have a steady demand. One of the reasons could be that the

self-help groups are unable to get a year-long income with these products,”

said project director, Vinodini N.