Assessment Of The Socio-Economic Empowerment Of Local Communities Through Food Processing Industries: A Case Study Of Khurda District, Odisha

Avilipsa Panda; Aparajita Biswal

doi:10.69968/ijisem.2026v5i2556-566

Authors

Avilipsa Panda Research Scholar, Department of Economics, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Email: avilipsa2015@gmail.com
Aparajita Biswal Professor & HoD, Department of Economics, Rama Devi Women's University, Bhubaneswar, Email: aparajita.biswal@yahoo.co.in

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69968/ijisem.2026v5i2556-566

Keywords:

Socio-Economic Empowerment, Local Communities, Food Processing Industries, Khurda District

Abstract

This study investigates the socio-economic empowerment of local communities through Food Processing Industries (FPI) in Khurda District, Odisha. Adopting a quantitative research approach, the study aims to assess the impact of FPI on key socio-economic indicators, including employment opportunities, income generation, access to nutritious food, and community cohesion. 400 respondents were selected using stratified sampling techniques, with data collected through structured questionnaires administered between December 15, 2023, and January 10, 2024. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was adopted to analyze the relationships between FPI and socio-economic outcomes. The results reveal significant positive associations between FPI and employment opportunities, income generation, access to nutritious food, and community cohesion. These findings underscore the potential of FPI to drive socio-economic development and enhance the well-being of local communities in Khurda District. The practical implications of the study suggest the importance of fostering an enabling environment for FPI growth, including policy support, infrastructure development, and skill enhancement programs. Furthermore, the study identifies avenues for future research, includinglong-term impact of FPI interventions and comparative analyses across different regions to inform targeted policy interventions for sustainable socio-economic empowerment. Overall, this study contributes to the literature on FPI and community development, offering insights for policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking to promote inclusive and sustainable development in Khurda District, Odisha, and beyond.

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