The Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS) continues to be a key driver in strengthening the rural economy and empowering local entrepreneurs.
In a two-day review meeting organised at the Odisha Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Institution in Bhubaneswar, Minister of Panchayati Raj & Drinking Water, Rural Development Rabi Narayan Naik, underscored the organisation’s role in fostering economic growth among rural producers and artisans.
Minister Naik emphasised the need for ORMAS to modernise its strategies while aligning with current market trends. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting rural livelihoods by ensuring year-round market access and capacity building for small-scale entrepreneurs. The discussions also highlighted the importance of refining local products such as turmeric, onions, chillies, mahua, and other agricultural commodities to enhance Odisha’s self-sufficiency and global reach.
ORMAS has been instrumental in promoting indigenous crafts and products through structured branding, packaging, and advanced marketing techniques. Future plans include increasing employment opportunities by focusing on product refinement, classification, preservation, and global promotion. The review meeting also featured presentations from district-level ORMAS officials, showcasing successful initiatives and upcoming measures.
Additionally, ORMAS, in collaboration with various stakeholders, explored the potential of locally sourced mahua flowers in manufacturing biscuits and chocolates. This initiative aligns with the broader goal of sustainable rural economic development. Minister Naik encouraged continued innovation and urged ORMAS to prioritise grassroots entrepreneurship as a catalyst for long-term economic growth.
