INWEC National Women’s Business Mela 2.0(Second Edition) Inaugurated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi

By Odisha News Today Last updated Apr 30, 2025

Bhubanewar:Odisha witnessed a landmark celebration of innovation, inclusion, and empowerment as the INWEC National Women’s Business Mela 2.0 was officially inaugurated on 30th April 2025 in Bhubaneswar by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Odisha, Shri Mohan Charan Majhi. Held from 30th April to 4th May 2025, the event, organized by INWEC in collaboration with ICC and MSME DFO Cuttack, gathered national leaders, policymakers, and grassroots changemakers.

This transformative gathering was curated to spotlight the convergence of women entrepreneurship, MSME development, and skill enhancement, reinforcing Odisha’s position as a rising hub for inclusive, innovation-driven economic progress. It showcased the impact of women entrepreneurship at the grassroots level, with diverse participation from districts across Odisha, highlighting the state’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, innovation-driven ecosystem.

Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi inaugurated the mela and delivered a powerful and inspiring inaugural address. He applauded the efforts of INWEC, ICC, and MSME DFO Cuttack for bringing together a transformative platform that elevates women entrepreneurship and MSME development in Odisha. The Chief Minister reaffirmed the state government’s strong commitment to fostering a progressive, inclusive, and innovation-driven ecosystem for MSMEs and women-led enterprises.Hon’ble Minister Shri Sampad Swain reflected on the event’s significance, stating:“The foundation of Odisha’s economic resilience lies in the strength of its people. Empowering women and elevating MSMEs is not just about fostering businesses-it’s about building empowered communities and a sustainable future.”Shri Rajib Sahoo, Chairman, ICC Odisha State Council, shared an evocative thought:“Odisha is a land of quiet ambition and bold transformation. Our MSMEs, especially those led by women, are not just economic engines—they are symbols of purpose, sustainability, and social equity. Ms. Preeti Pallavi Patnaik, Convenor of INWEC, inspired attendees with her perspective:
“Odisha’s women are rewriting narratives- not just participating but leading the way. INWEC stands committed to enabling their journeys through access, advocacy, and action.”

The Mela featured high-impact panel discussions focusing on digital transformation, sustainable business practices, inclusive policy frameworks, and upskilling the next generation of entrepreneurs.
A curated showcase of women-led ventures and MSME innovations illustrated Odisha’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and potential for scale.⁠The event featured women-led ventures, including handwoven textiles, organic food products, and tech startups, highlighting Odisha’s diverse entrepreneurial landscape. Special guest appearances, including Bollywood actor Zayed Khan who engaged in conversations with Odisha’s leading women changemakers including Sofia Firdous (Hon’ble MLA, Cuttack Barabati), Dr Maya Gantayat (Eminent Neurologist, MD & Co-Founder, Ashwini Group of Hospitals), Usha Padhee IAS (Principal Secretary, Housing and Urban Development & Dept of Commerce and Transport, Govt of Odisha), Aruna Mohanty (Padmashree and Odissi Dancer, Choreographer & Guru), and Ratnamala Swain (Director, DN Group).A unique Wellness Panel addressed “health as a business strategy, prioritising health for women business leaders” featuring: Dr. Vinita Mitra – Director, Sun Hospitals, Dr. Garima Sarawgi – Sr. Consultant, Surgical Oncology, Sum Ultimate Medicare, Rashmita Mohanty – Founder, Rethinking Wellness, Dr. Pratichi Mishra – Founder and CEO, BPM Medical Services, and Dr. Alok Shrivastava (BMS, Apollo Hospitals), moderated by Suma Devi Dash, Co-Convenor, INWEC.

The evening concluded with a powerful cultural performance, “Lasya Shakti – Dance of Empowered Women”, by Saswat Joshi & Team, celebrating womanhood through Odissi. The event showcased an impressive array of women entrepreneurs, highlighting their leadership across diverse sectors. Key attractions included tribal stalls, self-help group (SHG) showcases, kidspreneur booths, and food stalls featuring authentic, homegrown flavours.

The 1st day of the 5 day Mela concluded with a resounding message – to collaborate, innovate, and elevate. With over 200 women entrepreneurs from across Odisha and India participating, INWEC National Women’s Business Mela 2.0 stood as a testament to Odisha’s vision of becoming a model state for inclusive and women-led economic growth.