JAMMU, Nov 5: Promoting indigenous products, traditional craftsmanship and the spirit of self-reliance, the BJP OBC Morcha organised a special ‘Vocal for Local’ programme at Rajpura High School, Jammu, ahead of Diwali. As part of the initiative, earthen lamps (diyas) were distributed among schoolchildren to encourage them to celebrate the festival by supporting local artisans and businesses.
Braham Jyot Satti, State President, BJP OBC Morcha, was the chief presence at the programme and interacted with the students, highlighting the importance of purchasing locally manufactured products and supporting small traders and traditional artisans.
Addressing the gathering, Satti said that ‘Vocal for Local’ was not merely a campaign but a responsibility towards strengthening the local economy and making India self-reliant. He encouraged people to give preference to indigenous products, purchase goods from local shops and extend support to small businesses, artisans and craftsmen.
He further observed that festivals like Diwali provide an excellent opportunity to promote Indian traditions and preserve traditional craftsmanship. He appealed to people to celebrate Diwali with a spirit of togetherness and self-reliance by choosing locally made products rather than blindly preferring expensive branded alternatives.
Emphasising the importance of educating children about indigenous products, he said that such initiatives help connect young minds with Indian traditions while developing awareness about the contribution of local businesses to the economy. He added that even a small purchase from a neighbourhood shop could make a meaningful difference in the lives of hardworking traders, artisans and their families.
The programme was attended by Kushant Prajapati, Mandal President, Rehari-Bakshi Nagar; Arun Mehra, District Vice President, OBC Morcha; Sanjay Verma, District General Secretary, OBC Morcha; Karan Sharma, Mandal Vice President; Rekha Sharma, Mandal General Secretary; Mohit Gupta, Mandal General Secretary; and Praveen Badyal, District Spokesperson, OBC Morcha.
The programme was organised by Sanjay Verma, District General Secretary, OBC Morcha, while Vikrant Gupta, Protocol Incharge, extended his support and cooperation in ensuring its successful conduct.
Satti also expressed gratitude to Rajni Gupta and her entire staff for their cooperation and support in organising the initiative at the school.
The programme concluded with a collective message to celebrate an eco-conscious and meaningful Diwali by embracing indigenous products, encouraging local enterprises and contributing towards the vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat.