Bhubaneswar/Chikodi, January 13, 2026: The seven-day Pallishree Mela, organised by the Odisha Rural Development and Marketing Society (ORMAS), came to a successful close today, providing a vital platform for rural entrepreneurs, women self-help groups (SHGs), and producers to showcase and sell their products.
Under ORMAS, a total of 205 stalls were allocated to self-help groups, producer groups, Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), artisans, and product companies. Additionally, 19 food stalls, 40 stalls dedicated to agriculture and farmer empowerment, and 25 stalls by the Fisheries and Animal Resources Development Department were set up, bringing the overall count to 289 stalls.
Over the course of the seven days, the mela recorded impressive business transactions amounting to **₹1.58 crore**, highlighting the growing demand for rural and indigenous products and the empowerment of grassroots entrepreneurs.
**Ananta Self-Help Group** from Bargarh emerged as the top performer, achieving the highest sales of **₹4.99 lakh** and receiving the award for maximum turnover. For excellence in product presentation and decoration, **Giri Gobardhan Producer Group** from Kalahandi was honoured, while **Ma Binapani Tailoring Producer Group** from Ganjam was recognised for outstanding customer relations.
Among government departments, the **Horticulture Department** was felicitated for its effective information dissemination, education, and connectivity efforts.
The event underscored ORMAS's commitment to strengthening rural economies by connecting village producers directly with urban markets. Such melas continue to play a pivotal role in promoting sustainable livelihoods, women-led enterprises, and Odisha's rich artisanal heritage. Officials noted that initiatives like Pallishree Mela significantly contribute to economic self-reliance in rural areas.
Tags
ODISHA