Bhubaneswar: CM Mohan Charan Majhi called upon every girl in Odisha to dream fearlessly and break all societal barriers with confidence. Emphasising the importance of self-belief at the state-level International Women’s Day celebration, he said, “This is your time, your moment, your Odisha.”
He launched the state-wide ‘Shakti’ app to ensure women’s safety. This advanced digital system will act as a lifeline for women in need, providing instant emergency assistance at the click of a button. The app will serve as a shield for safety, a companion in distress, and a tool for empowerment for every woman in Odisha.
Majhi also launched the Odisha State Strategic Action Plan (2024–2029) to prevent child marriage. This initiative aims to eliminate child marriage and safeguard the future of young girls. “True empowerment is not just about providing financial assistance to women. Instead, it means giving them decision-making power in families and society,” he said, adding that his govt is striving to achieve this broader vision of empowerment.
“We will empower Odisha’s half population — our women — economically, socially, and politically so that they can make independent decisions in every sphere of life,” he said. He also spoke about various new schemes under the Subhadra scheme that are going to be launched by his govt to empower women in various sectors.
Opposition BJD and Congress also organised events to mark International Women’s Day. BJD chief Naveen Patnaik addressed BJD women workers and asked them to oppose attempts of BJP govt to mislead mothers. Meanwhile, Congress members wore black badges and staged on dharna opposing the increasing crime against women and girls in Odisha.
In the morning, Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) organised a Handloom Walkathon where over 500 women from different backgrounds participated wearing Odisha’s handloom. The walkathon was from Master Canteen Square to BMC office at Satya Nagar.
A youth conclave was held at Rama Devi Women’s University to promote entrepreneurship and emphasised the mental health of women while ensuring equal opportunity for every woman and girl for an equal world. The Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) department also celebrated Women’s Day and felicitated achievers.