Mission Shakti & THSC Empower 4,000 Women Entrepreneurs in Odisha

Bhubaneswar: In a landmark initiative to strengthen women’s economic empowerment, the Mission Shakti Department has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council (THSC).

The collaboration aims to provide skill development and entrepreneurship training to 4,000 women from 1,000 Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across Odisha.

The programme will focus on tent services, catering, food supply, and event management—sectors with high growth potential in the state’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Training modules will include business sustainability, professional skill enhancement, FSSAI certification, preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), procurement of equipment, and strategies for business expansion.

A budget of Rs 9.3 crore has been earmarked for the initiative. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida hailed the partnership as a milestone in creating more “Lakhpati Didis,” underscoring the government’s commitment to women-led enterprises.

Mission Shakti officials emphasised that the programme will not only boost employability but also foster inclusive economic growth by enabling women to become financially independent.

This collaboration is expected to transform SHGs into sustainable business units, positioning women entrepreneurs as key contributors to Odisha’s tourism and hospitality sector.