Bhubaneswar: A national seminar titled ‘Udyami Shakti’ was held to bolster women-led businesses by improving their access to markets, enhancing digital presence, and providing e-commerce opportunities alongside institutional backing. This event was organized by MSME-DFO, Kataka, in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME and Utkal Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ltd (UCCIL).
More than 100 women entrepreneurs and various stakeholders attended the seminar. The opening session featured Rashmita Panda, the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the state government’s MSME department, as the chief guest. PK Gupta, the Director of MSME-DFO, presented the program’s goals, while UCCIL President Prabodh Mohanty and honorary secretary Sanjeev Mahapatra welcomed attendees.
Gupta emphasized the significance of women entrepreneurs, stating, “Women entrepreneurs are an important pillar of India’s MSME ecosystem. Through Udyami Shakti, our aim is to strengthen their awareness of government schemes, digital platforms, market opportunities, and institutional support.” Mahapatra highlighted UCCIL’s collaboration with MSME-DFO to provide women entrepreneurs with access to knowledge, networks, and opportunities to grow their businesses.
The seminar included two technical sessions that introduced participants to vital platforms and initiatives such as Meesho, Government e-Marketplace (GeM), ORMAS, various MSME schemes, SIDBI, PMEGP, the National SC-ST Hub, and ONDC.
Additionally, the event showcased success stories from women entrepreneurs, and an interactive Q&A session offered practical advice on business expansion and leveraging available opportunities.
Mahapatra also mentioned that UCCIL plans to extend the initiative with outreach programs in industrial districts like Jharsuguda, Jajpur, and Sundaragada, aiming to broaden the network of women entrepreneurs.
