Shovana Mohanty assumed the role of Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Women (OSCW) on Monday.
The state government announced her appointment on August 5, 2025, and she will serve a term of up to three years.
Renowned for her decades-long commitment to women’s rights and grassroots activism, Mohanty’s appointment has been widely welcomed by civil society and advocacy groups. Her leadership is expected to infuse fresh energy into the commission’s policy implementation and outreach efforts.
Government sources cited her collaborative approach to reform and her extensive experience in social work as key factors behind the selection. The appointment comes at a time when Odisha is witnessing heightened discourse around gender safety, mental health, and inclusive governance.
Sources within the commission have revealed that Mohanty’s immediate priorities are to review pending cases of gender-based violence, launch mental health initiatives for women in rural areas, and strengthen institutional response mechanisms.
Women’s organisations across the state have hailed the appointment as “a step forward in inclusive governance,” expressing optimism about the commission’s future direction under Mohanty’s stewardship.
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