PROGRAMME ON INVEST IN WOMEN: ACCELERATE CHANGE ORGANIZED IN BHUBANESWAR BY CFAR
Bhubaneswar(07/03/2024): As part of the celebration of International Women’s Day, a programme on “Invest in Women: Accelerate Change,” was organized in Bhubaneswar today by the Centre for Advocacy and Research (CFAR) in association with Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC).
The event was participated by 51 women leaders from eight wards from the BMC, and representatives from government, civil society organisations, academia, and experts and members from the multi stakeholders’ forum.
The welcome address was made by Jayashree Das, CFAR, who highlighted the objectives of International Women's Day and the relevance of the subject.
Sulochana Das, Mayor, BMC, presided over the function.
In her address, Smt.Sulochana Das praised CFAR and its Executive Director Akhila Sivadas for giving this opportunity to participate in International Women's Day program.
She said, ‘’Thanks to state government for involving women in decision making process at the grass root level.
The government is empowering women financially through Self Help Groups (SHGs), and providing entrepreneurial skills to women.
It is also helping women to handle E-business and hiked the subsidy under Mamta Programme.
On this occasion, we must all strive for an inclusive climate resilient society where women plays a lead role.” Meera Parida, State advisor, MUKTA, extended warm wishes on International Women's Day and praised all women and trans woman who work hard despite facing discrimination, stigma, and gender bias in society.
She also expressed her gratitude to the state government for providing the opportunity to serve as a MUKTA state advisor and giving livelihood opportunities to women through SHGs. Manjulata Kanhar, Deputy Mayor, BMC, said, “Every day is a Women's Day, as women struggles day in and day out to keep her family happy.
Their dedication and hard work need to be appreciated.
I also extend my gratitude to men who contribute to women's empowerment both in household and professional life.” Ganesh Parida, Garima Expert, UMC, said, “First and foremost women must have confidence in their ability and believe in their work to solve the problems they face.
Second is please ensure involvement of all the women in every government policy and program so that they all get the benefits from various schemes of the government.” Swati Tanmayee Mishra, District Consultant, Action Aid, said, “Today women is contesting in elections, and participating in political activities.
They have political and educational freedom now, and Mission Shakit is providing livelihood options.
All these are possible because of Mission Shakti.” Ganga Kinner, Transgender activist from Ward 23, said, “The BMC took steps to engage transpersons and their SHGs in delivering WASH services in public spaces.” She also highlighted about the gender inclusive and responsive safe water management. Subhasini Pradhan, Waste collection vehicle operator from Ward 21, said, “I did not give up after losing my husband and seized every opportunity that came in my way to support my family.
Thank you for Believing in Me.
This was possible because BMC trained, facilitated licencing and designated me to drive battery operated vehicles for waste collection without doubting my capabilities.” Ranjita Bhuinya, Samrudhi SHG, Ward 38, said, “All this has been achieved through the leadership and commitment of the Mission Shakti Mahasangha and thank you All for Believing in Us.
This was possible because the BMC, engineers and Corporators contracted Mission Shakti Mahasangha to do rainwater harvesting.” Anita Champia, tribal women of Ward 05, said, “All this was possible because you believed in me and us women championing for climate-resilient, inclusive water and sanitation and hygiene for all.
On the occasion, a Podcast on Gender responsive urban sanitation was released.
Both community champions and investors were felicitated.
A talent fest was also arranged and was conducted by the women.
