The five-day extravaganza of India’s first Women’s Business Mela-2022, organized by the Indian Chamber of Commerce’s Entrepreneur Council, ended on Sunday evening.
In an attempt to promote women’s entrepreneurship in the state, India’s first Women’s Business Mela 2022 was organized on May 4-8 at Janta Maidan in Bhubaneswar.
The event was opened by Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. In a 5-day extravaganza, around 150 booths were set up by women entrepreneurs with over 30 dedicated booths for women entrepreneurs from SHGs and tribal communities.
Odisha Governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal attended the closing ceremony and spoke about the special place women can create in society and the equality they deserve.
Speaking to India Today, Chidatmita Khatuam, founder of the First Tribal Queen (Ad Rani) competition said: “The mission of the foundation is to explore the tribal treasure and especially to empower the girls/women by sharing their ancient heritage and cultural Presenting traditions while maintaining their individual identity.”
Various other dignitaries such as Odisha W& CD Minister Tukuni Sahu, Vidya Krishnan, Odisha State Council Chairman JB Pany, Co-Chairman MK Gupta, Women Entrepreneurs Convener Sukirti Pattanaik and Co-Convener Tanaya Pattanaik were present and discussed women’s issues, success and opportunities in different sessions.
More than 100 stands were set up and organized exclusively by women entrepreneurs. In addition to the selfie zone, a gaming zone and a food court have also been set up.
Various business seminars have also been organized to promote women entrepreneurs. Bollywood actor Arjun Rampal, director Imtiaz Ali and motivational speaker Gauranga These were the main attractions of the event.
Self Help Groups (SHGs) led by Mission Shakti were also actively involved in the Mela.
They displayed several unique products which were positively received by the visitors.
Tribal entrepreneurs set up stalls at the mela. The overall inclusivity of the event was appreciated by all.
The organizers are planning to hold the event again next year.
