NAVEEN PATNAIK INAUGURATES 8TH MSME INTERNATIONAL TRADE FAIR
Odishabarta,Bureau
Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday inaugurated the eighth edition of MSME International Trade Fair at IDCO Exhibition Ground in Bhubaneswar.
Speaking on the occasion, the Odisha CM said, “This Trade Fair provides unique opportunities to MSME Entrepreneurs of Odisha to showcase their products and services before National and International visitors.
“Odisha has been the cradle of entrepreneurship since times immemorial. The brands today known as Kalinga and Utkal have a glorious ancient past. The people from Odisha are known for their enterprising nature and have made name for themselves in Handicrafts, Textiles, Food Processing and Information Technology.
Odisha has been witnessing rapid industrial development for the last few years riding upon its rich natural resources. It also has a conducive business environment, forward looking industrial policy and infrastructure facility. The Make in Odisha Conclaves in the year 2016 and 2018 have been able to attract huge investments to the tune of Rs.5 lakh crore, and immense employment opportunities. This large industrial base shall provide ample new opportunities for MSMEs to grow. I would urge upon young and talented entrepreneurs gathered here to participate in the exhibition to take advantage of the upcoming opportunities in Odisha and set up new enterprises.
Our Government fully understands the importance of the MSMEs as they contribute immensely to the State GDP and create employment opportunities. In this back drop, MSME Department is organizing the 8th edition of its flagship event Odisha MSME International Trade Fair 2020. I am happy to note that more than 350 MSMEs are participating in this event. I am also happy to note the participation of 20 entrepreneurs from Iran and 12 entrepreneurs from Bangladesh who have come to Odisha. I extend a warm welcome to them,” Patnaik said.
The Chief Minister also said that special arrangements have been made for participation of women entrepreneurs and MSMEs from districts like Kalahandi, Nuapada, Malkangiri, Gajapati, and Kandhamal.
On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated the business delegations from Iran and Bangladesh and presented them filigree work mementoes.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Industries Minister Dibya Sankar Mishra, Chairman, OSIC.
In his address, Mishra stressed encouraging women entrepreneurs from rural areas. “The state government will set up MSME parks in backward districts of Odisha to boost entrepreneurship. Odisha government has given the approval to set up MSME parks in Kalahandi and Hinjili to create a better platform for the entrepreneurs. The work will start soon,” he added.
Principal Secretary Industries and MSME delivered the welcome address and Director Industries proposed the vote of thanks.
The department has installed 280 stalls for the display of MSME products with four hangars having 70 stalls in each. A dedicated hanger comprising of 70 stalls has been erected for international participants, PSUs like Nalco, MCL and East Coast Railways among others.
The five-day long trade fair will conclude January 12.
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