Growth and Survival Strategies of Small Scale Industries in Western Odisha: A 21st Century Perspective
Author : Syed Farhan Hyder
Abstract :
Small Scale Industries (SSIs) constitute an important segment of India’s industrial sector, contributing to employment, entrepreneurship, and regional development. In the context of Odisha, particularly Western Odisha, SSIs have historically sustained traditional occupations while supporting rural and semi-urban economies. However, in the 21st century, their growth and survival are increasingly challenged by globalization, technological shifts, infrastructural constraints, and market competition. This study investigates the growth dynamics and survival strategies of SSIs in Western Odisha, emphasizing how these enterprises adapt to the evolving economic environment.
The research adopts a descriptive and [analytical approach, drawing on secondary data from government reports, MSME surveys, and published literature, supplemented by case-based evidence from select districts. The findings highlight that while SSIs in Western Odisha continue to generate significant employment and preserve indigenous skills, they face persistent barriers including inadequate access to institutional finance, infrastructural bottlenecks, limited technological adoption, and fluctuating demand. Despite these constraints, many enterprises display resilience through adaptive survival strategies such as product diversification, integration into cooperative networks, and the gradual adoption of digital marketing platforms. Younger entrepreneurs, in particular, are exploring innovation-driven pathways that enhance both productivity and market outreach.
The study concludes that SSIs in Western Odisha are critical not only for local economic growth but also for maintaining socio-cultural identity and resilience in the face of structural economic transitions. By situating the discussion within the broader discourse on small enterprise sustainability, this paper contributes to scholarship on regional development and entrepreneurship in emerging economies. The insights provide a foundation for future research on the adaptability and long-term viability of SSIs in similar socio-economic contexts.
Keywords :
Small Scale Industries (SSI), Western Odisha; Survival Strategies, Economic Growth, Regional Development.
