The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BONGAIGAON, FEBRUARY 9, 2025
NTPC Bongaigaon, in collaboration with the Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, successfully organized a two-day “Anand Mela” on February 8-9, under the theme “Sustainable Shoots of North East.” The event highlighted the significance of bamboo and its sustainable products, showcasing the rich cultural and entrepreneurial heritage of the region.
The Mela was inaugurated by Arindam Sinha, Regional Executive Director, ER-II, in the presence of Masanda M Pertin, District Commissioner, Kokrajhar; Arnab Maitra, Business Unit Head, NTPC Bongaigaon; Rupali Sinha, President, Vasudha Mahila Mandal, ER-II; and Kasturi Maitra, President, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club. Senior dignitaries, including Debabrata Kar, GM (O&M); Asutosh Biswas, GM (Operation); Soumya Kar, Vice President, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club; and Jhumita Biswas, Senior Member, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club, also graced the occasion.
Transforming into a hub of culture, innovation, and community spirit, the Anand Mela featured over 30 stalls presenting traditional delicacies from across the North East, ethnic handicrafts, handlooms, organic food items, and intricately designed cane and bamboo furniture. A special highlight was a stall featuring sustainable bamboo and cane products crafted by Kokrajhar Jail inmates, drawing significant interest from visitors.
Masanda M Pertin explored the stalls, appreciating the craftsmanship and savoring the flavors of the North East. The event also included participation from medical, IT, and safety departments, Self-Help Groups from the North East, and automobile companies from Bongaigaon and Assam, reflecting the region’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit.
Speaking on the occasion, Arindam Sinha praised NTPC Bongaigaon’s contribution to ensuring a steady power supply to the region and the nation. He lauded the initiative for uniting vendors, families, and stakeholders while promoting sustainability and local heritage. Arnab Maitra commended the efforts of NTPC’s leadership and the ladies’ clubs in making the event a grand success, emphasizing its alignment with sustainability and regional identity.
Cultural performances by talented troupes from the Bodoland Territorial Region and the North East added to the festive atmosphere. A standout moment was a mesmerizing performance by the all-female band “Hurricane Girls,” captivating the audience with their synchronized symphonies. Game stalls set up by NTPC employees, along with participation from Bal Bhawan, further enriched the engagement and joy of the attendees.
In a significant CSR initiative, NTPC Bongaigaon distributed solar lanterns to 40 girls under the Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM) 2024, reinforcing its commitment to education, skill development, and gender equality. Arindam Sinha and Arnab Maitra, along with members of the ladies’ club, personally handed over the solar lanterns, underscoring NTPC’s dedication to empowering young minds.
The event was further elevated by ethnic dance performances and cultural programs featuring renowned artists from Assam and the North East. Distinguished guests, including G.M. Thangzom, Commandant, CISF; S Ghosh, General Secretary, Bardwi Shikla Ladies Club; Ashish Kumar, Dy. Commandant, CISF; Onkar Nath, AGM (HR); Paresh Mathur, AGM (TS); officials from the district and state administration; Heads of Departments from NTPC Bongaigaon; and representatives of unions, associations, and welfare bodies, were present to witness the grand celebration.
The Anand Mela exemplifies NTPC Bongaigaon’s commitment to fostering employee well-being through its wellness policy “Ahwahan” while promoting community engagement, supporting local talent, and celebrating the cultural vibrancy of the Bodoland Territorial Region and Assam. Through such initiatives, NTPC continues to strengthen its bond with the community while championing sustainability and socio-economic development.
