On 29th May 2025, the Government of Odisha successfully hosted the National Conclave on “Lakhpati Didi” at the Lok Seva Bhawan Convention Centre in Bhubaneswar.
This two-day conclave celebrated Odisha’s pioneering efforts in empowering rural women through sustainable livelihoods, helping over 16 lakh women earn ₹1 lakh or more annually—the highest in India under this flagship initiative of the Government of India.
The inaugural day featured the esteemed presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Deputy Chief Minister Smt. Pravati Parida, Development Commissioner Anu Garg, and senior dignitaries from various departments. Over 300 Lakhpati Didis, Self-Help Group (SHG) members, representatives from State Rural Livelihood Missions (SRLMs), and development partners from across India were also in attendance.
During the post-lunch session, SRLM representatives from Himachal Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha shared their best practices. A significant highlight of the day was the signing of two important Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs): one with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) to expand the digital reach of SHG products, and another with the Industree Foundation to develop sustainable enterprise ecosystems.
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The day concluded with Dr. Monica Priyadarshini, Director of Mission Shakti and SMD of OLM, presenting mementos to state representatives, followed by closing remarks from Sumitra Pattnaik, Additional Secretary. Delegates also visited the Mission Shakti Bazaar, which showcased Odisha’s handloom and craft-based SHG enterprises.
On the second day of the program, Lakhpati Didis and officials participated in a field immersion program organised by the district team. They visited notable attractions such as the Jagannath Temple, Raghurajpur Craft Heritage Village, Chandrabhaga Sea Beach, and the Sun Temple and Museum at Konark. This cultural and enterprise-focused exposure highlighted the connection between heritage and local entrepreneurship, reinforcing the theme of empowerment.
The conclave concluded with participants returning to Bhubaneswar, inspired by the Odisha model and committed to replicating its success across the country.
