Bhubaneswar, Dec. 30: Odisha MSME International Trade Fair – 2014 is all set to start from January 1 on Idco exhibition ground. The fair will continue till January 7.

Nearly 270 stalls will be put up at the exhibition to showcase various aspects of the micro small and medium enterprises (MSME). Governor S.C. Jamir will inaugurate the trade fair.

Secretary of the MSME Panchanan Dash said: “Delegates from countries such as Republic of Malawi, Burkina Faso, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Rwanda and Brunei will come to explore business opportunities here. Though the trade fair started last year only, it has been able to draw a good response in the market. We are hopeful the small-scale entrepreneurs will get a number of business proposals.”

The department has also asked vice-chancellors of various universities to send their students to see the trade fair and explore new ideas on how to become an entrepreneur.

Rout also said there was a plan to employ 10,000 youths. Besides, 30,000 youths would be given employment indirectly.

“Stress would be laid on setting up of food industries. Seminars would be organised in these sectors. According to the programme, 14 seminars on various topics will be held,” he said.