Mission Shakti and THSC Unite to Empower 4,000 Emerging Entrepreneurs
Mission Shakti and THSC partner to empower 4,000 emerging entrepreneurs to enhance skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities.
By SOH Edit Team
In a significant move to strengthen women’s economic empowerment, the Mission Shakti Department on Thursday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Tourism and Hospitality Skill Council (THSC). The partnership aims to enhance skill development and entrepreneurship opportunities for women members of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across Odisha, particularly within the tourism and hospitality sector.
Government’s Vision for Women Empowerment
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida described the initiative as a major milestone in advancing women’s empowerment in the state. She emphasised that the programme would contribute to the creation of more “Lakhpati Didis” by enabling women to integrate into the tourism and hospitality ecosystem through structured skill development and entrepreneurial support.
She further noted that equipping women with professional skills and sustainable livelihood opportunities would strengthen financial independence and support inclusive economic growth.
Mission Shakti Commissioner-cum-Secretary Girish S. N. delivered the welcome address and outlined the objectives and operational scope of the MoU. The agreement focuses on building women-led enterprises and improving their long-term sustainability in high-growth service sectors.
Training and Enterprise Development
Under the MoU, women SHG members will be trained to establish and manage enterprises in areas such as tent services, catering, food supply, and event management. The training programme will include modules on business sustainability, professional skill enhancement, FSSAI certification, preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPRs), procurement of equipment, and strategies for business expansion.
The initiative will provide structured training to 4,000 women members drawn from 1,000 SHGs. The programme has been allocated a budget of ₹9.3 crore, reflecting the government’s commitment to building women-led economic enterprises.
Officials stated that the initiative would significantly enhance employability and enable women-led SHG enterprises to actively participate in Odisha’s expanding tourism and hospitality sector. The programme is expected to contribute to sustainable livelihoods, increased household incomes, and broader economic inclusion.
