In a significant step towards promoting Odisha’s rich handloom and handicraft traditions, the new sales centre “Utkalika Aatithya” was inaugurated at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar.
Handloom, Textiles, and Handicrafts Minister Pradeep Kumar Bal Samant, who officiated the event, emphasised that this initiative will empower local artisans economically while elevating the global prestige of Odia handicrafts.
The minister stated that the outlet will enable tourists from other states and countries to purchase and carry home exquisite traditional handlooms and handicrafts as souvenirs. This, he added, will not only enrich the livelihoods of weavers and artisans but also amplify the cultural identity and pride associated with Odisha’s handicraft heritage.
“Utkalika Aatithya” represents an innovative effort by Utkalika to showcase and boost the sales of handlooms and handicrafts. According to Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Handloom, Textiles, and Handicrafts Department, Guha Poonam Tapas Kumar, the centre aims to enhance market access for traditional artisans and foster their overall development.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including Additional Secretary Pratap Chandra Hota, Handicrafts Director Nibedita Prusti, Financial Advisor and Additional Secretary Madhusmita Behera, Airport Director Prasanna Pradhan, Private Secretary Pitambar Samal, Utkalika President Debasmita Sahu, Vice-President Prashant Kumar Mahapatra, Joint Secretary and Utkalika Managing Director Mamata Nayak, and Joint Secretary and Director Kalyani Pattnaik.
Notably, Utkalika, formally known as the Odisha State Cooperative Handicrafts Corporation Ltd., was established on May 13, 1959, to develop the handicraft industry and provide employment to artisans through direct marketing of their products. It currently operates 12 branches within Odisha and 6 outside the state. The apex cooperative institution includes the state and central governments, along with 116 primary handicraft cooperative societies as members.
This new outlet at the international airport is expected to play a pivotal role in expanding the reach of Odisha’s artisanal products, fostering economic growth for craftspeople, and increasing international demand for these unique cultural treasures.
