Koraput, 18th July 2025: Koraput, Nabarangpur, Rayagada, Malkangiri, Kandhamal, Gajapati, and Balangir are among the backward and aspirational districts of Odisha. These are tribal-dominated regions. The Prime Minister aims to bring these districts significantly forward in the field of development, with a focused approach toward each region. It is essential to assess why these districts remain backward and underdeveloped, and take steps to move ahead.
Attending a one-day national awareness program on the National SC-ST Hub and various MSME-related schemes organized by the Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje made these remarks.
Inaugurating the program at the auditorium of Saheed Laxman Nayak Medical College and Hospital, Minister Karandlaje stated that the main objective of the event was to raise awareness among existing and aspiring entrepreneurs from Odisha about key government schemes and initiatives supporting SC-ST Hubs and MSMEs.
She mentioned that this region has significant production of flowers and millets, which can be leveraged for business and industrial development. Odisha is home to Navratna PSUs like HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) and NALCO (National Aluminium Company). HAL requires small tools, machines, nuts, and bolts.
Currently, around 300 small and large industrial units supply materials to HAL in Bengaluru, while only 50 such units in Odisha supply to the HAL unit located here. Entrepreneurs in Odisha were encouraged to get trained at the Tool Center in Bhubaneswar, and start manufacturing and supplying the required materials to HAL and NALCO locally.
She emphasized building industries based on local agricultural produce, with a focus on value addition. Notably, parts for the Chandrayaan mission were made at the Bhubaneswar Tool Center. The Central Government is ready to support the establishment of a Tool Center in this region to provide local training.
Additionally, food processing units and testing laboratories will also be provided. All departments will be upgraded for the benefit of MSMEs to ensure holistic industrial development in the region.
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