Bhubaneswar: Khadi is a source of economic prosperity and a symbol of support for indigenous products, said Bhubaneswar (Ekamra) MLA Babu Singh. He highlighted that khadi and village industries play a crucial role in poverty alleviation and the upliftment of rural artisans.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the Odisha Khadi Fair – 2026, which was inaugurated at the Khadi and Village Industries Board office near Ram Mandir, Bhubaneswar.
Rashmita Panda, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), said the Fair aims to showcase khadi products at a single venue and promote a market-oriented approach for the economic advancement of weavers and village industry artisans.
She added that the fair will engage younger generations through live demonstrations and interactive sessions.
The event features 75 stalls selling khadi garments, sarees, shawls, jackets, and various village industry products. Artisans from Odisha, Telangana, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Andhra Pradesh are participating. Cultural programs and traditional food offerings are organized every evening to attract visitors.
Officials present highlighted that the fair is a platform not only to boost sales but also to strengthen awareness of khadi and village industries among urban and young audiences.
The initiative reflects the state government’s ongoing efforts to support local artisans, preserve traditional crafts, and promote self-reliance through indigenous products.
