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Odisha Calling

Little did I know that I will be visiting India again in little over a month from my last visit. This time for work though. It all happened in less than a week from me talking to a colleague about this potential work through to packing my bags and leaving for India. Odisha it was! My first time visiting this East Indian state besides a quick few hours in the capital about 8 years ago.

What am I doing here? Well, I am here with a colleague to do a field assessment of the labour market situation for women, understand their aspirations and research educational opportunities for young and marginalised women who are at the risk of being left behind. Covering two major districts of Rayagada and Dhenkanal and a number of small villages and towns, the work involves visiting women groups, employers, communities, local governments and identifying their current and potential challenges and needs.

Landed in Mumbai, briefly met a friend for breakfast (thanks Karan for dropping by), flew to Vizag, drove to Rayagada and checked in to Hotel Sai International. (This is a recommended hotel for travellers to South Odisha). Specially after working for a similar project in Africa, this was very motivating and I am looking forward to exploring and unraveling some best kept secrets of Odisha!

River Nagavali with Eastern Ghats in the background

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