Bhubaneswar, Odisha : Khadi rural employment in Odisha received a strong push as the government renewed its focus on artisans and village economies. Fisheries & Animal Resources Development and MSME Minister Shri Gokulananda Mallik said Khadi is more than fabric. He described it as a symbol of self-reliance, freedom, pride, and prosperity. The Minister stressed that Khadi continues to create sustainable jobs in rural Odisha.
At a program in Maniabandh Buddha Mandap, Cuttack district, Shri Mallik distributed support equipment to 42 Khadi institutions. Each received 85,000 Tussar cocoons worth ₹4 lakh, which will help boost silk weaving and artisan incomes. He also underlined Khadi’s eco-friendly character, linking it to sustainable rural growth.
Odisha currently has 64 functional Khadi institutions. The state government, through the Khadi Board, provides aid to make them more employment-oriented and self-reliant. Officials aim to supply modern tools and technology to improve weavers’ skills and raise production levels.
Badamba-Narasinghpur MLA Shri Bijaya Kumar Dalabehera also addressed the event. He said the revival of Khadi institutions is a timely step. According to him, Khadi can strengthen the rural economy while creating jobs for women and the elderly. He urged artisans to embrace Khadi as a bridge between tradition and livelihood.
Senior officials joined the event, including Khadi Board Secretary Sanjay Kumar Mishra and Deputy Collector Prahlad Narayan Sharma. Board Members Dr. Arundhati Devi, Dr. Debendra Nath Manasingh, and Shri Pruthiraj Sahu also participated. Local leaders such as Panchayat Samiti Chairman Raghupati Mahanti, Zilla Parishad Member Nayana Sahu, and Maniabandh Sarpanch Rashmita Swain were present too. Large numbers of Khadi weavers attended.
This drive shows Odisha’s commitment to Khadi rural employment Odisha programs. The Minister promised more financial and technical help to Khadi institutions in the future. By investing in modern tools, the government plans to increase productivity while protecting traditional weaving skills.
Khadi weavers welcomed the initiative. Many expressed confidence that new equipment and government backing will secure their livelihoods. Leaders noted that this project will benefit families that depend heavily on weaving for income.
Through Khadi, Odisha not only preserves cultural heritage but also ensures rural prosperity. With strong government support, the Khadi rural employment Odisha movement is set to grow stronger, empowering artisans and strengthening the state’s economy.
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