Odisha’s iconic textile traditions are poised for a revival as Mission Shakti joins hands with the Weavers’ Service Centre under the Government of India.
This strategic partnership will bolster women-led Self Help Groups (SHGs) by merging heritage craft with contemporary design and global market access.
Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida, speaking at the Mission Shakti Bhawan Auditorium, heralded the MoU as a milestone for economic empowerment. “Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, we aim to transform Lakhpati Didis into Crorepati Didis,” Parida stated, citing Odisha’s prominent mention in PM Narendra Modi’s Mann Ki Baat for Santali weaving and Sankirtan traditions.
The initiative focuses on design mentoring, training, and digital cataloguing to make SHG products enterprise-ready. As Odisha leads the nation in women-led development—with over 16 lakh Lakhpati Didis—this MoU is set to expand their footprint in fashion, décor, and sustainable livelihoods.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary Smt. Shalini Pandit and Director Dr. Monica Priyadarshini emphasised that the collaboration will enhance innovation and skill-building across textile clusters. Shri Bikash Kumar from the Weavers’ Service Centre lauded Odisha’s weaving talent and reaffirmed its national significance.
From Subhadra Shakti Cafés to district-level product clusters, the state continues to spearhead inclusive development. Through expert mentoring and market linkage, this new wave of women-led textile entrepreneurship promises to redefine Odisha’s handloom legacy.
