Bhubaneswar, May 5: The 5-day INWEC National Women’s Business Mela 2.0 concluded with a resounding message to collaborate, innovate, and elevate. With over 200 women entrepreneurs from across Odisha and India participating, the event stood as a testament to Odisha’s vision of becoming a model state for inclusive and women-led economic growth.
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's entrepreneurship at the grassroots level, with diverse participation from districts across Odisha, highlighting the state’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, innovation-driven ecosystem.
The Mela featured high-impact panel discussions that focused 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 highlighted women-led ventures, including handwoven textiles, organic food products, and tech startups, showcasing Odisha’s diverse entrepreneurial landscape.
Special guest appearances, including Bollywood actor Zayed Khan, 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, prioritizing 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.
