The capital city of Odisha was abuzz with inspiration and ambition as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the INWEC Women’s Business Fair at the Exhibition Grounds.
Organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC) to mark the 100th anniversary of the ICC National Women’s Entrepreneurship Council (INWEC), the event was hailed as a “Festival of Women’s Power,” spotlighting the pivotal role of women in driving economic progress. The fair, attended by dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and aspiring businesswomen, underscored Odisha’s commitment to fostering women-led development and economic empowerment.
In his keynote address, Chief Minister Majhi described women’s empowerment as more than a slogan—it is a movement and a resolution for the state government. “Every woman in Odisha should dream for herself and have the resolve to achieve it,” he declared, emphasising that the fair would inspire women not only in Odisha but across India to embrace entrepreneurship. Highlighting recent state initiatives, he pointed to the success of the Excellence Odisha-Make in Odisha Conclave and Subhadra Shakti Mela, where women played a central role. “Today, we see that reality unfolding at this fair,” he added.
The Chief Minister spotlighted two flagship programs: Subhadra Yojana and Lakhpati Didi Yojana. Subhadra Yojana, described as a “messenger of economic freedom,” has reached over 90% of women in Odisha, providing financial assistance to fuel their aspirations. Meanwhile, the Lakhpati Didi Yojana has transformed the lives of 17 lakh women, who have achieved the status of “Lakhpati Didis” by earning an annual income of at least one lakh rupees. “Odisha leads the nation in creating Lakhpati Didis, with a target of 25 lakh by 2027,” Majhi proudly announced, crediting women’s contributions to the state’s economic growth.
The fair also served as a platform to showcase Odisha’s vision of preparing women entrepreneurs for global competition. Majhi outlined the government’s investments in skill development, market connectivity, and financial access to ensure women can thrive in a competitive landscape. “When women prosper, society prospers, and the economy develops,” he said, adding that Odisha’s progress hinges on the equal participation of its mothers, sisters, and daughters. He expressed confidence that women would be the “best partners” in building a prosperous Odisha by 2036, with the state government pledging full support.
Joining the Chief Minister, Minister for Industry, Skill Development, and Technical Education, Sampada Chandra Swain, praised the fair as a catalyst for Odia women entrepreneurs. “This gathering will pave the way for their financial independence and amplify their role in Odisha’s development,” he said, noting that women entrepreneurs are the “voice of prosperous change” in the state.
Additional Chief Secretary of the Industries and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Department, Hemant Sharma, highlighted the integration of modern technology with traditional industries to empower women. “The state’s vision is being successfully translated into reality, as women leverage these opportunities to lead and innovate,” he remarked.
The event was graced by prominent figures from the ICC, including Chairperson Shri Rajiv Sahu, who delivered the welcome address, INWEC Co-Convenor Smt. Swati Kejriwal, ICC Vice Chairperson Preeti Pallavi Patnaik, and Convener Dharmaditya Patnaik. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort to champion women’s entrepreneurship.
The INWEC Women’s Business Fair featured a vibrant showcase of products and services by women entrepreneurs, from handicrafts and textiles to technology-driven startups. Workshops, networking sessions, and panel discussions provided attendees with insights into market trends, funding opportunities, and skill enhancement. The fair also highlighted success stories of women who have benefited from government schemes, inspiring others to take the entrepreneurial leap.
As Odisha positions itself as a hub for women-led development, events like the INWEC Women’s Business Fair signal a transformative shift. By fostering an ecosystem of empowerment, innovation, and opportunity, the state is paving the way for a future where women are at the forefront of economic and social progress.
The Chief Minister’s vision of a prosperous Odisha by 2036, driven by the dynamism of its women, resonated strongly, setting the tone for a new era of inclusive growth.
