‘Women’s safety is true empowerment’, says Odisha Deputy CM Parida while launching Self-Defence Training for 5,000 SHG women

THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU

BHUBANESWAR, APRIL 9, 2026

Emphasising that true empowerment goes beyond economic independence to include safety, dignity and confidence, Odisha’s Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for WCD, Mission Shakti and Tourism, Pravati Parida, on Thursday launched a pioneering Self-Defence Training Programme for 5,000 women Self Help Group (SHG) members in its pilot phase at Mission Shakti Bhawan, Bhubaneswar. The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening women-led development through enhanced personal safety and confidence.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Chief Minister Parida said, “Empowering women is not limited to financial independence; it must also ensure their safety, dignity and confidence. This self-defence training programme will equip our SHG women with the strength and skills to move fearlessly, take independent decisions and actively participate in economic activities.”

The programme was launched in the presence of Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar, Chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW), who underscored the importance of institutional collaboration in promoting women’s safety and leadership. She highlighted that such initiatives play a vital role in enabling women to become self-reliant and confident contributors to society and the economy.

Implemented by the Department of Mission Shakti in partnership with NCW, the programme aims to provide structured self-defence and personal safety training to SHG members. In its pilot phase, the initiative will benefit 5,000 women across five districts — Khordha, Cuttack, Puri, Keonjhar and Ganjam — enhancing their mobility, enabling safer participation in market linkages, and reinforcing the foundation of inclusive growth driven by empowered women.

The event was also attended by Shobhna Mohanty, Chairperson, Odisha State Commission for Women; Mansi Nimbhal, Commissioner-cum-Secretary, Mission Shakti Department; and Shailendra Kumar Jena, Additional Secretary, Mission Shakti Department, along with senior officials and key stakeholders.