College Bazaar – Exhibition by Women Self Help Groups – 24th to 26th June 2025

The College Bazaar – An Exhibition by Women Self Help Groups is being conducted at A.P.C. Mahalaxmi College for Women, Thoothukudi, from 24th to 26th June 2025, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. This initiative is organised under the aegis of Thiru. K. Elambahavath, I.A.S., District Collector, as part of Magalir Thittam, a flagship socio-economic development programme for women empowerment in Tamil Nadu.

The exhibition features 17 stalls set up by Women Self Help Groups (WSHGs) from Thoothukudi District, exhibiting and marketing a wide range of handmade products including jute bags, palmyrah items, women’s accessories, handmade soaps, herbal cosmetics, oils, ready-made garments, wooden toys, fur dolls, and traditional food items. Two students from the Department of Commerce are assigned to each stall to assist in sales and gain experiential learning in marketing and entrepreneurial practices.

The event is formally inaugurated by Dr. K. Subbulakshmi, Principal of the College, in the distinguished presence of Mrs. Malliga, Director, Magalir Thittam, Thoothukudi District. Mr. Velraj, District Market and Sales Associate Manager, extends his expert guidance in the coordination and establishment of the stalls, thereby facilitating smooth participation by the SHGs.

The primary objective of the College Bazaar is to foster an entrepreneurial spirit among students, offering them an opportunity to interact with grassroots women entrepreneurs and understand the operational dynamics of small-scale businesses. Faculty members and students participate with enthusiasm, supporting the SHGs through active purchases and appreciation of their craft and business acumen. The event significantly contributes to promoting student entrepreneurship and empowering women-led microenterprises in the district.