Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi launched the week-long “Aakanksha Haat Abhiyan” at the State Convention Centre during the Sampurnata Abhiyan Samman Samaroh, organised by the Planning and Convergence Department.
The initiative aims to promote locally produced goods from Odisha’s Aspirational Districts under the “Aakanksha” brand, enhancing their market reach through digital e-marketplaces and empowering local communities, including women’s self-help groups, farmers, artisans, and weavers.
The event celebrated the remarkable progress of Odisha’s Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme, a transformative initiative launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2018 for districts and extended to blocks in 2023. Odisha’s 10 Aspirational Districts and 29 blocks across 16 districts have made significant strides in health, nutrition, education, agriculture, water resources, financial inclusion, and skill development. The programme operates on three pillars: Convergence of central and state schemes, Collaboration among stakeholders, and Competition to drive performance.
CM Majhi emphasised that the programme is a successful model for grassroots development, ensuring that the aspirations of Odisha’s most underdeveloped regions are fulfilled. He highlighted the “Vocal for Local” campaign, noting that the Aakanksha brand, launched in 2024, will boost the economic prospects of local producers by ensuring fair pricing and broader market access. The CM also stressed the importance of improving connectivity and transportation in remote districts to enhance the quality of life and service delivery.
The ceremony saw several districts and blocks honoured for their outstanding performance:
- Gold Medals: Malkangiri and Nabarangpur districts; Khairput, Mathili, Chitrakonda, and Dabugaon blocks.
- Silver Medals: Kandhamal and Koraput districts; 7 blocks.
- Bronze Medals: Dhenkanal, Gajapati, Kalahandi, and Nuapada districts; 3 blocks.
- Copper Medals: 11 blocks.
Odisha’s Aspirational Districts collectively secured ₹165 crore in awards, reflecting their consistent excellence across various sectors. CM Majhi congratulated the awardees and urged underperforming districts to strive harder, fostering a spirit of healthy competition.
State Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja praised the teamwork and growth mindset driving these achievements, while Development Commissioner Anu Garg highlighted the programme’s role in reaching remote areas, aligning with the vision of a prosperous Odisha by 2036. The event, attended by District Collectors and Block Development Officers, underscored Odisha’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable development.
The Aakanksha Haat Abhiyan is set to amplify the visibility of local products, ensuring economic empowerment and sustainable growth for Odisha’s Aspirational Districts and Blocks.
