Bhubaneswar: A 66-year-old woman from Kendrapara is all set to attend the Republic Day parade in New Delhi, courtesy of a special invitation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed the efforts of Kamala Moharana, a resident of Gulnagar panchayat in Kendrapara district, for making many household articles using waste materials during the 98th edition of Maan Ki Baat.
Kamala leads a self-help Group (SHG) which makes articles using milk pouches and other plastic wastes. For the past nine years, she has successfully run a self-help group, enabling 50 women to earn a livelihood by converting waste materials into stunning artistic products. In short, her dedication and perseverance have not only improved the lives of these women but have also inspired countless others
However, she came to the limelight after PM Modi lauded her efforts in transforming the lives of rural women on February 26 last year. In Kamala’s praise, PM Modi had said, “Kamala Maharana, a sister from Kendrapada district of Odisha runs a self-help group and makes household articles from waste materials. Women members of this group make several things like baskets and mobile stands from milk pouches and other plastic packing materials.”
That’s not all. The Prime Minister’s admiration for Kamala’s work was evident when he touched her feet during a poll meeting in Kendrapara on May 29, 2024. This heartfelt gesture was a testament to the impact of her selfless work.
Now, as Kamala prepares to attend the Republic Day parade, the Central government has arranged for her and her son Mahendra to travel to New Delhi by flight. This honour is a fitting recognition of Kamala’s tireless efforts to empower rural women and promote sustainable livelihoods.
As she takes her place among the esteemed guests at the parade, Kamala’s story will undoubtedly inspire women in rural pockets to create their own identity and serve as a shining example of the power of grassroots innovation and community-driven change.
