‘Mandia Rani’ Outlet Inaugurated at Oshapada
Tikiri, 28/5: Utkal Alumina International Ltd, (UAIL) a unit of Hindalco Industries, Aditya Birla Group, located at Doraguda near Tikiri in Rayagada district
has launched its flagship rural development initiative, “Project Gramya Shakti,” under its Mines CSR programme. On the occasion, the “Mandia Rani” outlet was also formally inaugurated at Oshapada for the sale of various handmade products developed under the project.
The programme was attended by UAIL Unit Head Mr. Rabi Narayan Mishra, Mines Head Mr. Vijay Chauhan, CSR Head Mrs. Lopamudra Mishra, along with government representatives Mr. Jyotimaya Dash, GDPO, Mr. Pabitra Naik, ABEO, CSR Department Head (Mines) Mr. Manoj Dash and team members, administrative officials, and Mr. Sanjib Pattnaik from ASSA. The initiative is being implemented jointly by UAIL CSR and Titilagarh-based NGO ‘ASSA’.
Through this initiative, UAIL has opened new avenues for rural development by creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for women producers from villages surrounding the mining area, enabling them to become self-reliant and economically empowered. The programme reflects the company’s strong commitment towards community-centric development and corporate social responsibility, while further strengthening cooperation and engagement with people from peripheral and project-affected villages.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Pradipta Malick of ASSA highlighted the importance of “Project Gramya Shakti” in improving the socio-economic condition of rural communities around the Baphlimali bauxite mines. Women associated with the project also shared their experiences, explaining how the initiative has helped them attain financial independence and lead a life of dignity and self-confidence.
The newly inaugurated “Mandia Rani” outlet will function as a retail centre for products collected and prepared by women entrepreneurs from five Gramya Shakti centres. The products include food items, phenyl, applique materials, jute bags, paper plates, agarbatti, lemongrass products, and several other handmade items. The initiative has earned widespread appreciation in the local area for UAIL’s efforts towards empowering rural women through sustainable livelihood and community development programmes.
Repoter- Baikuntha Duria
