Lanjigarh (Kalahandi), April 4, 2025: In a landmark initiative aimed at bolstering rural livelihoods and enhancing local economic opportunities, Kalahandi Collector Sachin Pawar inaugurated the newly-constructed 36 shop rooms for the Lanjigarh Rural Haat and officially handed them over to the Panchayat for the benefit of the local community. This initiative is a key step in strengthening the economic infrastructure for farmers, small traders, and Women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the region.
During his address, Collector Pawar highlighted the significance of the Rural Haat in promoting inclusive development. He said, “The Rural Haat in Lanjigarh represents a major milestone for rural economic empowerment and the upliftment of local communities. With the support of Vedanta Aluminium, this initiative is providing modern infrastructure, better access to markets, and multiple opportunities for small and marginal farmers, local artisans, and self-help groups. Partnerships between industry and administration are crucial for sustainable development, and we hope Vedanta continues to contribute to the socio-economic growth of Lanjigarh.”
Pranab Bhattacharyya, CEO of Vedanta Alumina Business, elaborated on the company’s vision, stating, “At Vedanta Lanjigarh, our mission extends beyond industrial operations. We are dedicated to fostering sustainable growth and empowering rural communities through initiatives like the Rural Haat. Developed in collaboration with NABARD and Mahashakti Foundation, the Haat provides a structured marketplace for farmers, SHGs, and small producers to showcase and sell their products. By providing world-class infrastructure, we aim to enhance livelihoods, generate employment, and create a self-sustaining ecosystem that enables local communities to thrive for generations. This project is a model of how public-private partnerships can drive inclusive development and economic resilience in tribal and underdeveloped areas.”
The Rural Haat was constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 80.90 lakh on 2.5 acres of Panchayat-owned land, executed by the Mahashakti Foundation. The shop rooms have been equipped with essential amenities such as adequate lighting, safe walkways, and hygienic facilities. These 36 shop rooms are designated for daily market activities, allowing peripheral farmers and small entrepreneurs, including Women SHGs, to sell their products directly to consumers. This direct market access is expected to increase income, improve livelihoods, and reduce dependency on intermediaries.
The inauguration was attended by several dignitaries, including NABARD DGM Maheswar Das, Lanjigarh Panchayat Samiti Chairperson Kamala Patra, Lanjigarh Sarpanch Saraswati Munda, Mahashakti Foundation MD Jugal Kishore Pattnaik, Lanjigarh Anchalik Vikash Parishad President Shridhar Peshnia, former Zilla Parishad member Rajendra Pratap Singhdeo, former Sarpanch Chandradhwaj Peshnia, and Vedanta CSR Head Shishir Tarapdar, while the programme was efficiently managed by Tiku Shrimukh Agasti.
The establishment of the Lanjigarh Rural Haat demonstrates Vedanta’s commitment to community empowerment, sustainable rural development, and inclusive growth. By providing a platform for economic participation, promoting local entrepreneurship, and strengthening livelihoods, the initiative has created a significant impact on the social and economic fabric of the region. It serves as a model for similar interventions across rural Odisha, fostering a self-reliant and prosperous community ecosystem.
