Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Wednesday inaugurated the eighth edition of MSME International Trade Fair at Idco Exhibition Ground here.
“Odisha has been the cradle of entrepreneurship since times immemorial. The brands today known as Kalinga and Utkal have a glorious ancient past. The people from Odisha are known for their enterprising nature and have made name for themselves in Handicrafts, Textiles, Food Processing and Information Technology,” the CM said, adding that this trade fair will provide unique opportunities to MSME entrepreneurs of Odisha to showcase their products and services before national and international visitors.
He said that Odisha has a conducive business environment, forward looking industrial policy and infrastructure facility. “The Make in Odisha Conclaves in the year 2016 and 2018 have been able to attract huge investments to the tune of Rs.5 lakh crore, and immense employment opportunities. I would urge upon young and talented entrepreneurs gathered here to participate in the exhibition to take advantage of the upcoming opportunities in Odisha and set up new enterprises,” he added.
The Chief Minister also said that special arrangements have been made for participation of women entrepreneurs and MSMEs from districts like Kalahandi, Nuapada, Malkangiri, Gajapati, and Kandhamal.
On the occasion, he extended a warm welcome and felicitated 20 entrepreneurs from Iran and 12 entrepreneurs from Bangladesh.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Industries Minister Dibya Sankar Mishra, Chairman, OSIC.
More than 350 MSMEs are participating in this event, which will conclude on January 12.
