In a significant development for women's empowerment initiatives in Odisha, the state government has announced a comprehensive package for Mission Shakti members that includes smartphones and a new dress code to be introduced on Utkal Divas, celebrated on April 1. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida made this announcement during the Mission Shakti interest refund programme held in Bhubaneswar on Monday.
Smart Devices and Distinct Identity for Resource Persons
The state administration will distribute smartphones and official identity cards to approximately 46,000 community resource persons working under the Mission Shakti programme. This initiative addresses a long-standing demand from these frontline workers who play a crucial role in implementing women-centric schemes across Odisha.
The smartphones will come pre-installed with the innovative LokOS application, specifically developed for the Ministry of Rural Development. This digital tool is designed to revolutionize how self-help groups (SHGs) operate by creating comprehensive member profiles and recording their activities systematically.
Digital Transformation of SHG Management
The LokOS app represents a major technological leap forward for women's collectives in the state. By centralizing the SHG system and eliminating traditional paper-based bookkeeping, the application aims to streamline operations and enhance transparency. This digital empowerment is particularly targeted at supporting 'Lakhpati Didis' - women entrepreneurs who have achieved significant financial milestones through their SHG participation.
Cultural Identity Through Artisan-Designed Attire
Alongside technological upgrades, Mission Shakti members will receive a new uniform that celebrates Odisha's cultural heritage. Deputy CM Parida emphasized that the dress code has been thoughtfully designed by local Odia artisans and reflects what she described as 'Odia Asmita' - the distinctive cultural identity of Odisha.
"The new uniform will give Mission Shakti members a smart and distinct look while honoring our traditional craftsmanship," Parida stated during the announcement. This move not only provides a professional appearance for the resource persons but also supports local artisans and promotes indigenous design traditions.
Substantial Financial Support Through Interest Refund
The announcement coincided with a major financial disbursement under the interest refund programme. During the event, a total of 2,80,586 self-help groups received reimbursement exceeding Rs 197.66 crore. This substantial financial injection is expected to significantly strengthen the economic position of women entrepreneurs across the state.
Parida elaborated on the scheme's impact: "This will further strengthen the financial condition of mothers and sisters who are moving towards entrepreneurship. Strengthening and developing the rural economy under women's leadership will help realise the vision of a developed Odisha and a developed India."
Comprehensive Loan Interest Waiver Scheme
The interest refund programme operates through a comprehensive support mechanism where the state government waives the entire interest on bank loans up to Rs 10 lakh. By setting the annual interest rate at 0 percent and directly crediting the interest amount to SHG members' bank accounts, the scheme provides substantial relief to women entrepreneurs.
The scale of this initiative becomes apparent when considering the broader context: Odisha currently has 5,92,161 self-help groups with 63,43,699 active members. Among these participants, an impressive 20.51 lakh women have achieved 'Lakhpati Didi' status, demonstrating the programme's substantial impact on women's economic empowerment.
This multi-faceted approach combining technological enablement, cultural recognition, and financial support represents a holistic strategy to advance women's leadership in rural economic development. The Utkal Divas celebrations will now include this significant empowerment initiative, marking both cultural pride and progressive governance in Odisha.
