Kalinganagar (Odisha): Tata Steel Foundation (TSF) is reaffirming its commitment to community development and cultural preservation by strengthening indigenous food systems and creating sustainable livelihood opportunities for tribal communities in and around Kalinganagar.
As part of this effort, TSF has launched a three-month residential culinary training programme for four talented tribal women chefs from Gobarghati-1, Gobarghati-2 and Ramthenga villages. The programme is being conducted at the Konark Eco Retreat in Puri district, offering participants exposure to professional culinary practices while staying rooted in traditional food knowledge.
The training, which commenced on December 11, 2025 and will continue until March 11, 2026, is being implemented in collaboration with the Government of Odisha’s eco- tourism initiative. Its primary focus is to revive, refine, and promote indigenous cuisineConducted under TSF’s Samvaad program, the training is led by noted indigenous food consultant and food blogger, Master Chef Madhusmita Soren Murmu. With her extensive experience in promoting tribal cuisine, she is guiding the participants in preserving traditional recipes.
Participants Geeta Jamuda and Priyadarshini Soy from Gobarghati shared that the program has provided them with rare access to professional kitchen environments boosting their confidence and culinary skills. Priyadar shini now plans to start her own cloud kitchen focused on indigenous cuisine.
Upon completion of the program, there are plans to organise a public food festival where the women chefs wil present their dishes to a wider audience. The event will serve as a platform for market linkage, while also promoting awareness of the nutritional value and cultural importance of indigenous food traditions among visitors.By transforming ancestral knowledge into sustainable livelihoods, the initiative ensures cultural continuity while fostering economic empowerment.
