The Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the Indian School of Business (ISB), has launched the ambitious ‘Green Shakti Producer Company Business Enterprise Leadership Cohort.’
This groundbreaking initiative aims to establish 30 women-led, forest-based enterprises in six districts of Odisha—Mayurbhanj, Keonjhar, Rayagada, Nabarangpur, Koraput, and Malkangiri.
In a recent three-day planning and orientation workshop, over 170 board members strategized to build a responsible forest economy. The leadership program offered training in financial literacy, leadership, and sustainable practices. It emphasized transparent and democratic decision-making to address rural power imbalances. The program envisions reaching over 30,000 women, directly benefiting primary producers by promoting equitable business practices.
Smt. Shalini Pandit, IAS, Commissioner-Cum-Secretary, Department of Mission Shakti, highlighted the potential of empowering women leaders in her keynote address. She mentioned that this initiative would help develop sustainable enterprises, enabling the forest economy to thrive while benefiting communities, nature, and industry.
The program also focuses on aggregation strategies for Sal seeds and other forest products, ensuring sustainable growth and maximizing returns for primary producers. With initial working capital support from the Odisha Government, the initiative is set to transform the lives of women entrepreneurs and create a model for inclusive and sustainable development.
