Reaching the Grassroots: A Case Study from Kalahandi

Kalahandi, in southern Odisha, has often been in the news for the wrong reasons. With changing times and continuous effort, a lot has improved in the district. Today, the district is one of the largest producers of cotton and paddy in the state. The NITI Aayog has appreciated Kalahandi’s success in reducing anaemia among adolescent girls and women. The Government of India has recognized Kalahandi’s efforts at promoting MSMEs in the district. However, skill development and employment remain a major challenge. An important underlying cause identified by MGN Fellow (Kalahandi) was that many candidates, particularly those from marginalized communities, were unwilling to move out of their hometowns. Years of exploitation by ‘outsiders’ have made them suspicious of any outside prospect that promises a better future.