Kalahandi, 10/04/2025: Vedanta Aluminium, India’s top producer of smelter-grade alumina and a subsidiary of Vedanta Limited, showcased the entrepreneurial journeys of rural women through Parichay — a grand celebration of women’s empowerment in Kalahandi, Odisha. More than 2,000 women from 60 villages came together to share stories of resilience, growth, and enterprise.
The event marked the finale of a month-long initiative by Vedanta’s Lanjigarh unit to connect, engage, and uplift women in some of the remotest parts of Kalahandi. Under the banner of Project Sakhi, Vedanta has empowered over 5,000 women, fostering financial independence and leadership.
“We are proud to support women-led enterprises that are reshaping the socio-economic landscape of rural Odisha,” said Mr. Pranab Kumar Bhattacharya, CEO – Vedanta Alumina business. “Parichay is a tribute to these changemakers and their inspiring journeys.”
Among them is Mamata Bidika from Ashrampada, who shared how joining a self-help group (SHG) transformed her life. “From having no income to running a small business and supporting my children’s education — the journey has been empowering,” she said.
Parichay featured products by 18 SHGs — from cold-pressed oils to millet-based snacks — and included highlights like Sakhi Rasoi, live cooking demos, and a felicitation ceremony for 11 exceptional women entrepreneurs. Through these stories and showcases, the event underlined how women in rural Odisha are rewriting the narrative of success.
