484/2024-2025
Aizawl, 27th February 2025: A State Workshop on Women-Led Development through Entrepreneurship was held today at Mizoram University Auditorium under the initiative of the NITI Aayog State Support Mission. The Chief Minister of Mizoram, Pu Lalduhoma, attended the event as the Chief Guest and officially launched the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) Mizoram Chapter, while Dr. V.K. Paul, Member, NITI Aayog, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
In his address, the Chief Minister expressed his gratitude to NITI Aayog for selecting Mizoram as the first state in Northeast India to establish a WEP chapter. He remarked, "The presence of Dr. V.K. Paul at this event is an encouragement for us, and I firmly believe it will yield positive outcomes. Women in Mizoram are highly industrious and capable, playing a vital role in the state's economic progress. To support young and aspiring entrepreneurs, the state government has launched the Bana Kaih Scheme. Currently, in its pilot phase, we have selected 517 Progress Partners, of whom 140 (27%) are women. We hope more women will benefit from this scheme, and we are also working closely with NITI Aayog to collaborate on Bana Kaih and other schemes.” He also extended his appreciation to Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister, LESDE, for leading the initiative of this event.
Dr. V.K. Paul, in his speech, lauded Mizoram's women for their entrepreneurial spirit and financial independence. He emphasized that the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), launched today by the Chief Minister, will serve as a key enabler for women's empowerment and economic growth. He urged women entrepreneurs to register with WEP and take full advantage of its opportunities. He stated, "The empowerment of women is crucial for India's overall development, and the Prime Minister himself prioritizes this cause. NITI Aayog is committed to supporting this mission, and through WEP, we aim to bring transformative change."
During the event, Pu Lalmalsawma Pachuau, Secretary, Planning, extended his gratitude to the attendees, while Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister, LESDE, Pu Khilli Ram Meena, IAS, Chief Secretary, Pi Anna Roy, Principal Economic Adviser & Mission Director, WEP, and Rini Ralte, Founder, Label Lelen, also delivered speeches highlighting the importance of women-led entrepreneurship.
The Chief Minister inaugurated various WEP initiatives, including:
1. WEP State Chapter Mizoram
2. Yashasvani Program (in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME)
3. Swavalambini Program (in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship)
4. WEP Award to Reward Programme (with New Shop)
5. WEP App (Beta Version Launch)
6. Awards to Women Entrepreneurs (by Make My Trip)
Following the inaugural session, Dr. Priscilla C. Ngaihte, Regional Lead, Northeast, NITI Aayog, delivered a vote of thanks, and the Women-Led Development through Entrepreneurship Workshop continued in the afternoon session.
This landmark initiative is expected to boost women's participation in entrepreneurship, strengthening Mizoram's economic landscape and aligning with the vision of Viksit Bharat.
