Daringbadi, Dec, 02: Rupa Mishra, Joint Secretary of the Union Ministry of Home and Urban Affairs, visited Daringbadi for the first time and reviewed various government schemes being implemented in this the region. Upon her arrival in Daringbadi, she was welcomed by Kandhamal District Collector Bed Bhushan.
She first toured the Daringbadi coffee plantation, spent some time at the coffee café operated by local women self-help groups, and tasted coffee prepared by the women. After returning from the plantation, she bought turmeric, ginger, coffee, black pepper, and other traditional products from a stall run by an Adivasi woman entrepreneur named Premati Pradhan, who sells traditional produce in front of the coffee estate.
It is noteworthy that the Joint Secretary not only purchased items but also gave the Adivasi woman an additional ₹1,000. She praised Premanti Pradhan’s entrepreneurial efforts and encouraged her to continue progressing. Before leaving, she told her in English, “Very good.”
She later visited the Eco Retreat built atop the hill, reviewed the tourist spots, and discussed tourist facilities and issues with local administrative officers.
Finally, upon arriving at Sulumaha village, various women self-help groups greeted her warmly. She interacted with Adivasi women about how different government schemes are helping them become self-reliant and how effectively the benefits are reaching them. In particular, she discussed how the women’s self-help groups have become empowered by working under the Millet Mission. The women also showcased produce grown under the Millet Mission.
The Joint Secretary expressed her happiness that the Millet Mission has become a guiding light for improving the livelihoods of local women. Kailash Dandapat, a community mobilizer, explained to her how the women could further benefit from government schemes.
During her visit to Daringbadi, District Collector Bed Bhushan, BDO of Daringbadi Preeti Ranjan Rath, and Tahsildar Dheeraj Patra were present.
