By Tanuja Mohanty
Bhubaneswar: Empowering women is foundational to achieving sustainable development, and the Government of Odisha has placed women’s economic independence at the core of its vision. The Lakhpati Didi initiative, a flagship programme of the Central Government under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is being effectively implemented in Odisha by the State Government under the dynamic leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, with Odisha Livelihoods Mission (OLM) spearheading its execution. Through this initiative, rural women are empowered to achieve sustainable annual incomes of ₹1 lakh or more, transforming grassroots entrepreneurs into influential community leaders.
A compelling illustration of this transformation is Madhusmita Sahoo from Deuliathenga village in Antuar GP, Nimapada Block, Puri district. A gifted artisan, Madhusmita specializes in the ancient and exquisite art form of Palm Leaf Pattachitra. With a natural inclination towards this traditional craft, she initially encountered considerable financial hurdles. However, through targeted support from Odisha Livelihood Mission’s comprehensive livelihood enhancement programmes, she successfully transitioned from financial uncertainty to entrepreneurial success.
As a member of Jay Shreeram Self-Help Group (SHG), Madhusmita secured ₹1 lakh through GPLF and an additional ₹1 lakh via bank . These resources allowed her to invest strategically in high-quality raw materials, improved tools, and extensive skill development. OLM-organized skill enhancement workshops and market linkage support further equipped Madhusmita with the expertise to expand her craft beyond local markets.
Today, Madhusmita proudly identifies as a successful ‘Lakhpati Didi’, generating a remarkable monthly income of ₹1 lakh, totaling around ₹12 lakh annually. Her Palm Leaf Pattachitra products have garnered widespread appreciation, finding markets not only within Odisha but also reaching admirers in other states. Regular participation in government-facilitated trade fairs, exhibitions, and rural marketing events has significantly increased the visibility and marketability of her products.
Her entrepreneurial success serves as a beacon of inspiration for numerous rural women, demonstrating how traditional arts can evolve into thriving enterprises. Madhusmita’s journey underscores the effectiveness of structured financial assistance, training, and market linkages provided by OLM, aligning with the broader objective of the state government to economically empower women.
Looking ahead, Madhusmita aims to embrace digital marketing platforms, enabling her products to reach a wider national and global customer base. She also envisions mentoring other rural women, teaching them the intricate techniques of Pattachitra, thus promoting traditional art and creating new avenues for women’s economic participation.
