DARBHANGA, Oct. 23 -- Women from Jeevika self-help groups and local artisans will soon have a platform to display and sell their products at Darbhanga airport under the Airports Authority of India's (AAI) AVSAR scheme, officials said, adding that the airport will also introduce an 'Udaan Yatri Cafe' to offer passengers affordable refreshments. The initiatives aim to improve passenger amenities while promoting Mithila's rich artistic and cultural heritage and indigenous products among travellers using the airport. AVSAR, short for Airport as Venue for Skilled Artisans of the Region, provides self-help groups and local artisans with a platform to display and sell indigenous products at airports. The initiative seeks to empower rural communities, particularly women, by creating livelihood opportunities and connecting locally made products with wider markets. Airport director Dilip Kumar confirmed that the AVSAR initiative was proposed for Darbhanga airport. The stalls are expected to showcase Mithila paintings, handicrafts and other locally made products, offering travellers a glimpse of the region's cultural heritage, he said. Under the proposed arrangement, the stall will be allotted to Jeevika, which in turn, will allot the space to different self-help groups, with each group permitted to operate the stall for up to one month. The initiative is expected to provide greater visibility and market access to locally made products, particularly those produced by women associated with self-help groups, while adding a cultural dimension to the passenger experience. Meanwhile, preparations have been completed to open a Bihar tourism department counter at the airport within the next couple of days. The counter is expected to provide passengers with information about tourist destinations and cultural attractions across Bihar, particularly in the Mithila region. The airport is also preparing to introduce a Udaan Yatri Cafe, where passengers will be able to buy tea, snacks and other refreshments at affordable prices. The facility is awaiting security clearance and formal inauguration by the Union civil aviation minister....