Bhubaneswar: The Skill Development & Technical Education Department, Government of Odisha, in collaboration with the Udaiti Foundation, New Delhi, organized a consultation on “Unlocking Women’s Participation in Formal Jobs in Odisha” at the World Skill Center, Bhubaneswar today. The consultation brought together policymakers, industry leaders, training institutions, and experts to deliberate on strategies for enhancing women’s presence in formal and highgrowth sectors.
The event was inaugurated by Sampad Chandra Swain, Minister, Skill Development & Technical Education and Industries, Odisha. In his address, the Hon’ble Minister highlighted that Odisha’s Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR) stands at 48.7%, significantly higher than the national average of 40.3%. With 17% of women workers engaged in the industrial sector, compared to 15% nationally, the Minister noted that while these figures reflect progress, higher participation alone does not guarantee access to better opportunities or formal employment.
He emphasized that, ‘Many women still encounter barriers in entering structured, highgrowth, and wellpaying sectors. The Government of Odisha is committed to building an ecosystem that supports every woman’s aspirations, whether she comes from a village or a city.’
The consultation aligns with the Government of Odisha’s broader vision to increase women’s workforce participation and drive their economic empowerment. The halfday session aimed to engage diverse stakeholders, particularly industry partners, to understand their needs, challenges, and recommendations for strengthening women’s representation in the formal workforce.
Addressing the gathering, Bhupendra Singh Poonia, IAS, CommissionercumSecretary, Skill Development & Technical Education Department, highlighted that, Government initiatives such as Sudakshya are creating an enabling environment for more girls to acquire skills in manufacturing and emerging sectors. The government is committed to supporting the girls in this journey of skilling and empowerment.
Among others present were Rashmi Ranjan Mohapatra, CEO, World Skill Center, Pinaki Patnaik, COO, World Skill Center, Neetu Singh, Head of Programs – Government, Udaiti Foundation were present.
The consultation brought together panellists and senior representatives from leading industries and organizations across the country. This consultation marks a significant step toward strengthening industry partnerships and ensuring that Odisha’s rapidly expanding skilling ecosystem translates into meaningful and sustainable employment opportunities for women.
