THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 22, 2026
“Women empowerment is key to inclusive and
sustainable growth,” asserted Chief Secretary of Odisha Anu Garg while
addressing the “CII IWN NUA Odisha” programme, organised by the CII Indian
Women Network (IWN), Odisha Chapter on Tuesday, in Bhubaneswar. Emphasising the
critical role of women in shaping the state’s growth trajectory, she called for
greater participation of women entrepreneurs and professionals and underscored
the need to strengthen ecosystems that support women-led enterprises.
The event brought together an
inspiring mix of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and grassroots changemakers from
across Odisha, reflecting a shared commitment to driving inclusive development.
The initiative, conceptualised as “Changemakers for NUA Odisha,” celebrated the
transformative role of women in building a progressive and self-reliant state
rooted in the ethos of Odia Asmita.
Adding further depth to the
discussions, Manikanta Naik, Vice Chairman of CII Odisha State Council and
Managing Director of Tata Steel SEZ Ltd, highlighted the importance of industry
support and policy alignment in advancing women-led growth.
Zubina Ali, Chairperson of CII
IWN Odisha Chapter, and Snehaprava Das, Co-Chairperson, reinforced the need for
collaboration, capacity building, and sustained policy advocacy to enhance
women’s participation across sectors.
The programme served as a
dynamic platform to exchange ideas, share success stories, and inspire action,
while aligning with the broader vision of NUA Odisha — an empowered,
aspirational, and inclusive state. The enthusiastic participation of women from
diverse backgrounds, including entrepreneurs and grassroots social workers,
underscored a growing momentum toward gender-inclusive progress.
CII IWN Odisha Chapter
continues to play a pivotal role in nurturing leadership, fostering
entrepreneurship, and advocating for policies that empower women, contributing
meaningfully to Odisha’s evolving development narrative.
