In a significant move to advance women’s economic empowerment, the Skill Development & Technical Education Department, Government of Odisha, partnered with the Udaiti Foundation, New Delhi, to organise a high-level consultation titled “Unlocking Women’s Participation in Formal Jobs in Odisha” at the World Skill Center here today.
The event brought together policymakers, industry leaders, representatives from training institutions, and domain experts to discuss actionable strategies for increasing women’s representation in formal, high-growth, and well-paying sectors.
Inaugurating the session, Minister for Skill Development & Technical Education and Industries, Sampad Chandra Swain, spotlighted Odisha’s impressive progress in women’s workforce engagement. He noted that the state’s Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) stands at 48.7%, well above the national average of 40.3%. Additionally, 17% of women workers in Odisha are engaged in the industrial sector, compared to 15% nationally.
While acknowledging these gains, the Minister stressed that the quantity of participation must translate into quality opportunities. “Many women still face barriers in accessing structured, high-growth, and remunerative jobs. The Government of Odisha is dedicated to creating a supportive ecosystem that fulfils every woman’s aspirations, whether from rural villages or urban centers,” he said.
The half-day consultation aligned with the state’s broader agenda to elevate women’s workforce participation and foster their economic independence. It focused on engaging industry partners to identify their specific requirements, existing challenges, and practical recommendations for enhancing women’s roles in the formal economy.
Bhupendra Singh Poonia, IAS, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Skill Development & Technical Education Department, highlighted flagship initiatives like Sudakshya, which are building an enabling environment for girls to gain skills in manufacturing and emerging sectors. “The government remains fully committed to accompanying girls on their journey of skilling and empowerment,” he affirmed.
Key attendees included Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, CEO, World Skill Center; Pinaki Patnaik, COO, World Skill Center; and Neetu Singh, Head of Programs – Government, Udaiti Foundation.
The consultation featured panel discussions with senior representatives from leading industries and organisations nationwide. It represented a crucial step in forging stronger industry linkages and ensuring that Odisha’s expanding skilling ecosystem delivers sustainable, meaningful employment for women in the formal sectors.
This collaborative effort underscores Odisha’s leadership in women’s workforce participation and its resolve to bridge the gap between overall participation and access to quality formal jobs.
