Bhubaneswar: Economic development in Odisha can be achieved through a focus on industry, particularly small, medium, and micro enterprises (MSMEs), said Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at the 25th Bharat Prativa Samaroha, organized by Jay Bharat Foundation and Bharat Masala in Barang, Cuttack district, on Saturday.
“Our government is working towards this goal, and organizations like Bharat Masala can serve as role models,” Majhi said.
He emphasized that both large-scale industries and MSMEs are priorities for his government, with a focus on boosting employment opportunities and overall economic growth.
Citing Bharat Masala’s rise from an initial capital of ₹400 to a business worth ₹600 crore, Majhi called it a prime example of how entrepreneurial initiative can lead to success.
He announced that the state will support 1,000 entrepreneurs annually through Start-Up India and Incubation Centers and plans to establish 11 MSME Parks to foster further growth. The government has also provided financial assistance for MSME units, including interest repayment and capital flow support.
Majhi highlighted the state’s long-term vision, aiming for a “Samruddha Odisha” by 2036 and a “Bikasita Odisha” by 2047. He urged the youth to venture into start-ups and MSMEs, drawing inspiration from leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, who envisioned industries as trustees of society, investing profits in community welfare.
Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik praised Bharat Masala for its role in promoting spice cultivation among farmers and inspiring Odisha’s youth to become entrepreneurs.
Industry, Skill Development, and Technical Education Minister Sampad Chandra Swain also commended Bharat Masala for its growth and reiterated the government’s support for MSME development, which he said would create more employment opportunities in the state.
Cuttack Sadar MLA Prakash Chandra Sethi, Bharat Masala founder Surendra Nath Panda, and Managing Director Sushant Kumar Panda also addressed the event.