Sambalpur, AUg 5: IIM Sambalpur, one of the premier management institutions concluded the third phase of its three-week Entrepreneurship Development Programme for master weavers of Western Odisha under the aegis of Center for Responsible Business.
The event brought together 25 selected weavers from the region to equip them with essential business and entrepreneurial skills to strengthen the unique needs of the handloom sector.
IIM Sambalpur aligning with its core value of regional development is working continuously towards national missions like ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local.” IIM Sambalpur is taking the lead by bridging the major gap between indigenous craftsmanship and modern business ecosystem. The three-week residential program is designed to empower master weavers from Western Odisha, underscores the institute’s commitment to inclusive development, rural entrepreneurship, and preservation of India’s rich handloom heritage.
The training sessions, conducted by IIM Sambalpur facultyand external experts,covered a range of practical topics such as marketing, pricing, customer communication, digital branding, sustainable packaging, GST and bookkeeping, cooperative societies, and business automation. Workshops on sustainable packaging, bulk order handling, and live case discussions were designed to make the training practical and applicable.The program also dedicated time to digitization and readiness for online sales. In previous editions too, the institute has stood out by delivering business education in local language, enabling local arcticians to access and absorb management concepts effectively.
While addressing the participants and the guests, Prof. MahadeoJaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, said, “Indian Business School should not be confined to elite industry only, rather it should focus on the grassroot level business. This special initiative by IIM Sambalpur has bring huge changes in the livelihood of weavers and have made them “Aatmanirbhar”. This initiative reflects our deep respect for the heritage and skill of western Odisha’s master weavers.”Prof. Jaiswal further said, “Sambalpuri handloom is not just a fabric, it is an identity and dignity for us and it should get reflected internationally. With this programme, we aim to build their business capabilities. We are working tirelessly to take their business to global levels.”
While addressing the gathering, Ms. ArunaMarandi, CSR Head, TPWODL, said, “This is a very noble initiative by IIM Sambalpur, as no other educational institution in the county have taken such a thoughtful step for the small business owners. This programme depicts the vision of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”.
The valedictory session, held on Sambalpuri Divas, was graced by special guests including ArunaMarandi, CSR Head, TPWODL; Sanjay Kumar Mahapatra, District Project Manager Odisha Livelihoods Mission, Sambalpur; and Srimata Hota, Joint CEO, ORMAS, Sambalpur, along with Prof. MahadeoJ aiswal, Director IIM Sambalpur and Prof. Sumita Sindhi.
The valedictory ceremony concluded with certificate distribution to the participants. The introductory speech was given by Prof. Sumita Sindhi, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Amrut P. Mohanty, Chief Administrative Officer.
