Empowered MSMEs for a Developed Odisha: “Self-Reliant Youth, Prosperous Odisha” Convention Held in Nuapada

Young Entrepreneurs Felicitated; Financial Assistance of ₹12.99 Lakh Distributed Nuapada, June 17: The “Self-Reliant Youth, Prosperous Odisha” Convention was successfully organized at the auditorium of National College, Nuapada, under the joint initiative of the Department of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and the Department of Skill Development and Technical Education. The event was held as part of the state-wide Government Outreach and Citizen Engagement Programme, marking the completion of two years of the State Government. The convention was organized under the theme “Empowered MSMEs for a Developed Odisha” and the slogan “Development for All, Across Odisha.” The programme was chaired by Nuapada Collector Madhusudan Das and attended by Nuapada MLA Jay Dholakia and Khariar MLA Adhiraj Mohan Panigrahi as chief guests. Among the distinguished guests were Dr. Sonia Jain, Chairperson of Khariar Road NAC; Tareswari Sahu, Chairperson of Nuapada Panchayat Samiti; Lambodar Dharua, Chief Development Officer; and Hitesh Kumar Sahu, Principal of National College, Nuapada. The event commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by the dignitaries, followed by the inauguration of a district-level exhibition showcasing various government schemes and entrepreneurial initiatives. Samir Muduli, General Manager of the District Industries Centre, presented the achievements of the MSME sector over the past two years, highlighting various schemes and future plans. Similarly, Binod Prakash Lakra, District Skill Development and Employment Officer, outlined the accomplishments and upcoming initiatives of the Skill Development and Technical Education Department. Former Lead Bank Manager Sitaram Meher delivered an insightful session on entrepreneurship, financial management, and self-reliance, encouraging young people to explore opportunities in enterprise development. Successful entrepreneurs Abhishek Agrawal and Badan Meher shared their entrepreneurial journeys and experiences, inspiring aspiring business owners. Both entrepreneurs were felicitated for their achievements during the programme. On the occasion, financial assistance amounting to ₹12,99,383 was distributed among beneficiaries under various MSME and Skill Development Department schemes. Under the Nano Unicorn Scheme, five young entrepreneurs received incentive support of ₹1 lakh each. Additionally, pension assistance was provided to 11 beneficiaries. Addressing the gathering, the chief guests emphasized that various government schemes are playing a significant role in making the youth self-reliant and economically empowered. They encouraged young people to utilize government support and skill development opportunities to create sustainable livelihoods and employment opportunities for others. Speaking to the media, Collector Madhusudan Das stated that honouring successful entrepreneurs would motivate emerging entrepreneurs to pursue their goals with confidence. He expressed hope that Nuapada would continue to progress in the MSME sector and emerge as an industrially prosperous district in the future. The programme witnessed the participation of district-level officials, entrepreneurs, students, beneficiaries, and media representatives in large numbers. Anil Kumar Lenka, District Swachh Bharat Coordinator, efficiently conducted the proceedings of the event.