THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
FEBRUARY 2, 2026
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan
Majhi on Monday set a decisive tone for women-led development and inclusive
growth by inaugurating the Subhadra Shakti Mela in Rayagada, coupling a major
financial infusion for women’s self-help groups with the launch of a wide
spectrum of development projects across the district.
Underscoring the government’s
commitment to empowering grassroots institutions, the Chief Minister announced
the extension of Rs 200 crore in interest-free loans to 4,217 self-help groups,
providing critical support to thousands of women engaged in diverse livelihood
activities. This was complemented by the distribution of Rs 14 crore as
revolving funds to 9,337 beneficiaries, strengthening the financial backbone of
community-based enterprises. Majhi highlighted that SHGs are no longer passive
recipients of welfare but active partners in Odisha’s development journey,
driving rural economic transformation through discipline, entrepreneurship and
collective effort.
The event also marked a significant
boost to infrastructure and public services, with the Chief Minister
inaugurating 41 projects valued at Rs 210 crore and laying foundation stones
for 67 additional projects worth Rs 340 crore. These initiatives span key
sectors including roads, drinking water, irrigation, education, health
infrastructure, rural development and urban amenities. Majhi reaffirmed that
the benefits of development would reach every section of society, with special
focus on the poor, tribal communities, women and youth.
Turning the spotlight on Rayagada’s
economic prospects, the Chief Minister announced that industrial projects
exceeding Rs 1 lakh crore are currently underway in the district. Once
operational, these projects are expected to generate employment for over 30,000
local youth. He made it clear that industries must prioritise local employment,
mandating that 80 per cent of jobs go to residents, and cautioned that
companies failing to honour this commitment would not receive necessary
government clearances.
Reiterating the broader vision of his
government, Majhi said the focus extends beyond financial assistance to
ensuring the dignity and long-term empowerment of women. He pointed to emerging
opportunities in agriculture, handloom, garments, culture and tourism as key
drivers of sustainable prosperity for Rayagada, positioning the district as a
model for balanced development rooted in local strength and inclusive growth.
