LUCKNOW, Oct. 25 -- The Uttar Pradesh IAS Officers' Wives Association (UP IASOWA) organised its first Diwali Mela at the CSI Club in Raj Bhawan Colony on Saturday. The event brought artisans and women entrepreneurs onto a common platform to showcase their products and connect with a wider audience. Meenakshi Singh, a senior Indian Revenue Service officer of the 1993 batch and wife of Uttar Pradesh director general of police Rajiv Krishna, currently serving as chief commissioner of income tax at Prayagraj, inaugurated the event. UP IASOWA president Neelu Goel, wife of chief secretary SP Goyal, said the mela was the association's first such initiative. Artisans from different parts of UP and other states displayed handicrafts, traditional products and artifacts, highlighting the diversity of India's craft traditions. The stalls featured carpets from Bhadohi, pottery from Khurja, glass bangles from Firozabad, Banarasi and Chanderi sarees, apparel from Jaipur and jewellery from Kutch. Food stalls, cultural performances, activities for children, health check-ups and blood donation facilities were among the other attractions.Addressing the gathering, Meenakshi Singh thanked UP IASOWA for inviting her and appreciated the initiative to provide artisans and women entrepreneurs with a platform to display their skills and products. She said bringing artisans from different regions together and connecting them with a wider audience could contribute significantly to their livelihoods and empowerment. Chief secretary SP Goyal also appreciated the initiative, saying the association's efforts would encourage artisans and women entrepreneurs by providing them greater visibility and opportunities to showcase their work. DGP Rajiv Krishna and principal secretary to the chief minister Sanjay Prasad also attended the event. Neelu Goel also appreciated the work of Akanksha Samiti, which supports women and girls through initiatives in education, healthcare, skill development and income generation. UP IASOWA secretary Preeti Gupta, treasurer Rashmi, and other office-bearers and members, were present....