INWEC National Womens Business Mela 2.0 day 3 Shines with Inspiring Insights from Deputy Chief Minister Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, IAS Officer Anu Garg, and Bollywood Icon Sushmita Sen.The third day of the five-day INWEC National Womens Business Mela 2.0 unfolded with resounding success and enthusiasm, graced by the presence of distinguished leaders and change-makers.
Shri Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo, Honble Deputy Chief Minister of Odisha, Honble Minister, Agriculture and Farmers’ Empowerment Department & Energy Department, Government of Odisha delivered an inspiring address reaffirming the governments commitment to fostering an inclusive and innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. He felicitated budding kidpreneur and lauded exemplary contributors like Dr. Sita Kantha Das, Chairman of Kalinga Hospital, recognizing their role in building a resilient and empowered society.
Ms. Anu Garg, IAS, Development Commissioner cum Additional Chief Secretary, Planning and Convergence Department and Water Resource Department, Government of Odisha, delivered a powerful keynote on Odishas progressive approach to gender-inclusive growth, underlining the importance of policy support and grassroots participation in women-led development.
A highlight of the evening was the special appearance by Sushmita Sen, Bollywood icon, entrepreneur, and Miss Universe 1994. In a captivating fireside chat titled Trailblazing with Heart: Empowerment, Entrepreneurship, and Creating Impact, Ms. Sen shared her inspiring journey of purpose, leadership, and resilience. She also felicitated women achievers and young talents, encouraging them to lead with authenticity and courage.
Key Sessions from Day 3 Included:
Accelerating Change The Next Chapter for the Automobile Industry Industry leaders including Abinash Samal, Padmini Panigrahi, Akhil Poddar, Preeti Pallavi Patnaik, Shaunak Parikh, and Sunil Taneja, moderated by Rajan Gugnani, shared insights on the future of sustainable mobility and innovation.
Tourism Panel: Unlocking Odisha Reimagining Tourism and Hospitality for a Sustainable Future Featuring Anindita Ghosh (Outlook Traveller), Deboo Patnaik (The Crown Hotel), HH Rashmi Bhanj Deo (Mayurbhanj Foundation), and Aditya Panda (Wildlife Conservationist), with moderation by Sonal Sahoo (Lyfe Hotels), the panel explored Odishas rich potential in heritage tourism, wildlife, and hospitality.
The Power of You A compelling one-on-one session between Samir Srivastav, CEO of Looks Salon, and Sony Samal, Co-Founder of 72 DPI Skillz Pvt. Ltd., offering insights into personal brand building for entrepreneurs.
The cultural showcase “Pratidhwani: Memories & Melodies” captivated the audience with a magical evening of soulful performances that beautifully reflected Odishas artistic heritage. The event featured mesmerizing musical renditions by the incredibly talented Prakruti Mishra and her band, alongside the dynamic Dillip Kumar and his band. The evening also celebrated the emerging stars of Odisha’s cultural scene, with heartfelt felicitation of young artists, adding a special touch to the celebration of the states rich artistic spirit.
As the third day draws to a close, the INWEC National Womens Business Mela 2.0 continues to be a platform for women to amplify their voices, accelerate their ventures, and empower each other to make a lasting impact. With each day of the Mela, the event proves to be a catalyst for change – uniting visionaries, leaders, and innovators, and paving the way for the next generation of women entrepreneurs. As we move towards the final days, there is an electric energy in the air, as participants gear up for even more transformative sessions and inspiring discussions that promise to leave an indelible mark on Odishas entrepreneurial landscape.