Koraput, 17th July 2025: A sensitization program was organized at the Koraput Medical College auditorium to promote the SC-ST Hub initiative under the MSME Department. Union Minister of State for MSME Shobha Karandlaje attended the program and said that a roadmap has been prepared to transform youth in six backward districts into job providers through MSMEs.
She mentioned that industries like HAL and NALCO are located in Koraput, and there is a need to supply mechanical components to them. For this, youth no longer need to go to Bhubaneswar for training, as a Tool Training Center will be established in Koraput to cater to six districts.
In line with current requirements, tool training, entrepreneurship development, and industrial setup will be promoted. In the next four years, initiatives like Tool Training Centers, Food Processing Labs, Food Testing Labs, and Tool Testing Labs will be established to advance MSMEs and create employment opportunities.
All departments will be coordinated to provide need-based training in Koraput, which will be implemented under the REMP scheme. Across India, 6.57 crore MSMEs have been registered, generating employment for 28 crore people. MSMEs contribute 30% to the national GDP and 45% to exports.
The Union Minister stated that 30% of India’s GDP comes from MSMEs. Moreover, 25% of government purchases must be sourced from MSMEs. She assured that the industries created under this program would meet international quality standards.
Odisha Skill Development and Industries Minister, Sampad Chandra Swain, said that Koraput district has high potential for MSME-based industries. As of now, 10.85 lakh MSMEs are registered in the state. He urged youth not to chase jobs, but instead to become job creators.
He also noted that by 2025–26, the country is projected to see ₹3.25 lakh crore in private investment, out of which Odisha’s share is expected to be 40%.
MP Balaram Majhi added that HAL is currently producing aircraft engines, and there is a potential for local entrepreneurs to manufacture and supply required components to HAL.
The event was also attended by:
Fisheries & Animal Resources Minister Gokulananda Mallik
Kandhamal MP Sukanta Kumar Panigrahi
Five MLAs from Koraput and Nabarangpur districts
Additional Chief Secretary of MSME Department Hemant Sharma
Director of NBIARMB Dr. Ajit Kumar Sasanayak
Joint Secretary of Union MSME Ministry Mercy Epao
District Collectors from four districts
Entrepreneurs and aspiring youth from six districts
Some leading entrepreneurs were felicitated for their contributions during the event.
No responses yet