Bhawanipatna, Apr 9: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s leading producer of smelter-grade alumina and a subsidiary of Vedanta Limited, organized "Parichay", a vibrant celebration of women’s empowerment and the rich cultural tapestry of Kalahandi, officials said on Wednesday. More than 2,000 women from 60 villages participated in the event celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit of women in rural Odisha.

Parichay was the grand culmination of a month-long celebration dedicated to women’s empowerment. Throughout the month, Vedanta Lanjigarh engaged women from the remotest corners of Kalahandi through fun-filled games and community-building activities designed to boost camaraderie and confidence.

Speaking on the occasion, Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, CEO – Vedanta Alumina business, said, “Women are at the heart of inclusive development. Through our women empowerment project – Sakhi, we are proud to empower more than 5,000 women across Kalahandi, nurturing local enterprises and enabling social and financial independence. Parichay is a celebration of their spirit and success stories.”

Sharing her experience, Mamata Bidika, a SHG member from Ashrampada said, “Earlier, we lacked confidence and income opportunities. After joining our SHG through Project Sakhi, I learned how to manage finances, run a small business, and even speak publicly. Today, I proudly sell our products at exhibitions like Sakhi Utsav, and my earnings support my children’s education.”

Parichay featured stalls by 18 self-help groups (SHGs), presenting a diverse array of handcrafted and organic products, including honey, kulthi dal, millet-based snacks, cold-pressed oils, spices, paper plates, and eco-friendly cleaning agents. The standout attractions included "Sakhi Rasoi", a live cooking counter run by SHG women, a pottery display, and Dhokra and Saura art by local artisans. The event also had engaging activities, folk dance performances from seven villages, and a special felicitation ceremony honoring 11 inspiring women achievers for their entrepreneurial excellence.

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