Rayagada, April 17: Utkal Alumina, a unit of Hindalco Industries of the Aditya Birla Group, inaugurated a CSR Fair at Nuapada under Tikiri, Rayagada district. The fair has been organized with the objective of providing better market linkages to local artisans, producer groups and entrepreneurs from nearby areas. A wide range of indigenous products are on display and available for sale at the event.
The CSR Fair was inaugurated by Mr. Brijesh Jha, President – Mines Vertical, who graced the occasion as chief guest. The event also witnessed the esteemed presence of Mr. Basudev Bandopadhyay, AVP – Hindalco Mines Group; Mr. Vijay Chauhan, Mines Head – Utkal Alumina; and Lopamudra Mishra, Head – CSR, among others.
In his address, Mr. Jha highlighted the ongoing CSR initiatives of the company and encouraged the participating producer groups. He emphasized the role of such platforms in empowering local communities through livelihood promotion and market access.
The fair, organized at the Club House in Nuapada township, showcased high demand for local handmade products among the residents. Through its CSR initiatives, Utkal Alumina has been facilitating various livelihood programs in nearby villages. The fair aims to support these beneficiaries by providing them with a platform to market their products.
A total of 19 nearby villages including Paikakupakhal, jogiparitunda, Narinajodi, Kumharshila, Makapadar, Uparadheska, Bilamal, Maligaan, and tikiri participated in the fair. Women’s self-help groups, farmers, entrepreneurs, and artisans from these villages displayed and sold products made through their skill and effort.
The exhibition featured a variety of handmade goods such as jute bags, chandua (decorative canopies), brooms, lemongrass oil, slippers, paper plates, terracotta items, incense sticks, millet-based food products, garments, indigenous agricultural produce, and spice-based food items.
The UAILs CSR department also ensured fair pricing and adequate marketing support to the participating producer groups. The initiative has received enthusiastic response from local buyers, and the farmers, entrepreneurs, and women’s groups expressed their happiness and gratitude for the opportunity
