Bhubaneswar, Nov 28: Odisha has won the gold medal in the 42nd India International Trade Fair organised by the Ministry of Commerce at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi. While all the States and Union Territories and various Ministries participated in the grand event, the Odisha pavilion emerged first and was awarded a gold medal.

On behalf of the Odisha Government, Information and Public Relations Director Saroj Kumar Samal received the medal. As many as 24 stalls were opened by seven departments of the Odisha government in this fair, which was held for 15 days from Nov 14 to 27. Mainly handicrafts, handicrafts, paintings, stone crafts, Koraput coffee, millet food and various products prepared by the Mission Shakti members were placed in the Odisha pavilion.

I & PR Minister Pradeep Amat and Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Minister Ashok Kumar Panda visited the pavilion. Besides, Chief Secretary Pradeep Jena, I & PR Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh and Panchayatiraj Secretary Department Sushil Kumar Lohani also visited the pavilion.

Odisha Statehood Day was celebrated on November 19 as per the norm of the fair. It featured Sambalwari, Odishi, Dalkhai and Birli dances. Renowned vocalist Abhilipsa Panda performed. Special editions of Odisha Review and Utkal Prasang were released.

Organized by the India Trade Promotion Organization of the Ministry of Commerce, this year's theme of the fair was "Vasudheeiba Kutumbakam". The I & PR Department of Odisha showcased its age-old maritime trade. A boat fitted with seven live demos of artworks from various departments was the focal point of attraction.

Odisha government agencies and departments like ORMAS, Mission Shakti, SC/ST, Agriculture Department, MSME, Tourism and Handicrafts participated in the event. I & PR Director Santosh Das, Pavilion Director Suryaranjan Mohanty and other officers managed the day-to-day operations.

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