IIM Sambalpur Leads the Change to Empower Traditional Artisans with Modern Business Tools
Sambalpur,(thestates.news) | On the occasion of Sambalpuri Divas, 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
faculty and 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. Mahadeo Jaiswal, 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. Aruna Marandi, 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”. On this auspicious day of Sambalpuri Divas,
I’m happy to see everyone wearing Sambalpuri handlooms, as it is a sustainable fabric and
we are marching forward in a positive manner.”
The valedictory session, held on Sambalpuri Divas, was graced by special guests
including Ms. Aruna Marandi, CSR Head, TPWODL; Mr. Sanjay Kumar Mahapatra,
District Project Manager Odisha Livelihoods Mission, Sambalpur; and Mr. Srimata Hota,
Joint CEO, ORMAS, Sambalpur, along with Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, 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.
