Bhubaneswar, Odisha : Odisha women empowerment received a major push today as Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida announced new initiatives under Mission Shakti. She signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with FICSI, TSSC, GJSCI, and NCW to expand skills, create micro-enterprises, and strengthen women-led self-help groups (SHGs).
The government will transfer ₹110.97 crore directly to the accounts of 1,63,757 self-help group (SHG) members. The funds will help repay loans and promote micro-enterprises at the grassroots level. This step aims to strengthen entrepreneurship and economic independence for women across the state.
Deputy CM Parida said that under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s guidance, Mission Shakti creates opportunities for women-led ventures. It also promotes Odisha’s tribal arts and traditional skills.
Under the FICSI MoU, 10,000 SHG members will receive training in fruit pulp processing, spice processing, oil extraction, multi-skill techniques, and fruit and vegetable dehydration. The training will help women run food-processing enterprises.
The Telecom Sector Skill Council (TSSC) MoU will train 60 women in 30 Gram Panchayats of Cuttack district. They will learn mobile handset repair through a pilot project. If successful, this project will expand across Odisha. It aims to create micro-enterprises under female leadership.
The Gem and Jewellery Skill Council of India (GJSCI) will train 1,440 SHG members in silver filigree craftsmanship. The women will get access to e-commerce platforms and local markets to sell their products.
Mission Shakti also signed an MoU with the National Commission for Women. It will provide self-defense training for women aged 18–40 in five districts. The program will boost confidence, safety awareness, and SHG unity.
Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd. contributed a transparent-door fridge to Subhadra Shakti Café. This support strengthens women entrepreneurs further.
The MoU signing event included Shalini Pandit, Secretary of Mission Shakti, Monica Priyadarshini, Director NCW, and representatives from FICSI, TSSC, GJSCI, and Coca-Cola India.
Deputy CM Parida stated that these initiatives will enhance women’s leadership. They will also expand livelihood opportunities and increase the number of self-made women entrepreneurs in Odisha.
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