Finance
In a first-of-its-kind effort in Odisha, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida launched a self-defense training program for 5,000 women Self Help Group (SHG) members on Thursday as part of the state’s Mission Shakti, marking a significant step toward improving women’s safety and confidence.
The programme was formally launched at Mission Shakti Bhawan in Bhubaneswar by Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women.
Addressing the audience, Parida emphasized that women’s empowerment must go beyond financial independence and encompass safety, dignity, and self-esteem. She stated that the project will help SHG members become more fearless, make their own judgments, and participate more actively in economic operations.
Rahatkar emphasized the necessity of institutional support structures for women’s safety and capacity growth. She stated that such efforts are critical in empowering women to become self-sufficient, confident, and active contributors to society and the economy.
The Mission Shakti Department is implementing the programme in conjunction with the National Commission for Women.
In the pilot phase, 5,000 SHG women from five districts—Khordha, Cuttack, Puri, Keonjhar, and Ganjam—will be trained in self-defense and personal protection practices.
The project intends to improve women’s mobility, promote safer market participation, and support women-led development throughout the state.
Shobhna Mohanty, Chairperson of the Odisha State Commission for Women, attended the launch, as did Mission Shakti Commissioner-cum-Secretary Mansi Nimbhal, Additional Secretary Shailendra Kumar Jena, and other senior officials.
