Odisha Puts Spotlight on Women Entrepreneurs as CM Inaugurates INWEC’s 100th Anniversary in Bhubaneswar

Bhubaneswar: Reaffirming the state’s commitment to empowering women through enterprise, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the 100th anniversary celebrations of the ICC National Women’s Entrepreneurship Council (INWEC) at Bhubaneswar’s Exhibition Grounds on Sunday. Calling the event a “Festival of Nari Shakti,” the Chief Minister said the fair celebrates the entrepreneurial spirit and resilience of women across Odisha.

Speaking at the event, Majhi encouraged women to aim high and pursue their aspirations boldly, saying the INWEC platform would serve as a catalyst for women-led businesses in Odisha and beyond. He noted the growing role of women in state-led initiatives such as the Make in Odisha Conclave and Subhadra Shakti Mela, and reiterated that women empowerment is not just a slogan but a statewide movement.

The Chief Minister highlighted the success of schemes like Subhadra Yojana and Lakhpati Didi Yojana, stating that over 90% of women in the state have received benefits under Subhadra Yojana. So far, 17 lakh women have become Lakhpati Didis, with the state aiming to reach 25 lakh by 2027, positioning Odisha as a national leader in women’s economic empowerment.

Majhi further outlined the government’s focus on enhancing skill development, market linkage, and access to finance for women entrepreneurs, with an emphasis on equipping them for global competition. “From sowing the seeds of an idea to taking it to international markets, we will support women at every step,” he said.

Minister for Industries, Skill Development and Technical Education Sampada Chandra Swain said the milestone event would pave the way for financial self-reliance among women and deepen their participation in Odisha’s economy. He stressed that economic empowerment is key to gender equality.

Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary of the Industries and MSME Department, added that the state is actively working to integrate modern technology with traditional knowledge systems, enabling women to thrive in emerging sectors while preserving Odisha’s cultural heritage.

The event was attended by prominent dignitaries including ICC Chairperson Rajiv Sahu, INWEC Co-Convenor Swati Kejriwal, ICC Vice Chairperson Preeti Pallavi Patnaik, and Convener Dharmaditya Patnaik, among others. The centenary celebration featured exhibitions, interactive sessions, and showcases of women-led businesses from across the state.