The capital city is preparing to host Sisir Saras–2026, a mega rural fair organised by ORMAS under the Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Department, Government of Odisha.
The event will run from January 10 to 18 at the IDCO Exhibition Ground and will bring together artisans, producers, and women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) from across Odisha and nearly 20 states.
This year, ORMAS is collaborating with Mission Shakti to expand the fair’s reach. Organisers will set up 340 sales stalls and 35 food stalls, transforming the venue into a vibrant “Mini India Market.” Visitors will experience Odisha’s rich handicraft and handloom heritage, including textiles from Bargarh, Sambalpur, Balangir, and Subarnapur; lac products from Balasore; papier-mache from Keonjhar; woodcraft from Kandhamal and Kalahandi; golden grass crafts from Kendrapada and Jagatsinghpur; terracotta from Balangir; black rice and lemongrass from Koraput; and millet-based products from Sundargarh.
Adding diversity, artisans from other states will showcase Kalamkari from Andhra Pradesh, Kosa silk from Chhattisgarh, Tussar silk from Jharkhand, Chikankari from Uttar Pradesh, woollens from Jammu & Kashmir, Phulkari from Punjab, block prints from Madhya Pradesh, and jewellery from Karnataka.
Organisers will also conduct six workshops and training programs involving around 850 SHG and CBO members. These sessions will focus on enterprise development, branding, product shelf life, and market competitiveness. Meanwhile, cultural programs, kite and drone shows, fashion shows, and a special musical night in memory of Humane Sagar will add festive charm.
The fair will highlight eco-friendly practices by ensuring a plastic-free environment, proper lighting, security, and drinking water facilities. With a Rs 30 crore cumulative sales target, Sisir Saras–2026 aims to boost rural livelihoods and strengthen the “Vocal for Local” movement.
Minister Rabi Narayan Naik praised the initiative as a strong step towards Atmanirbhar Odisha and urged participants to make the event a grand success.
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