Mizoram launches women entrepreneurship platform at state workshop

A state-level workshop on women-led development through entrepreneurship took place at Mizoram University Auditorium under the NITI Aayog State Support Mission.

 

The event marked a significant step for women's economic empowerment as Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma officially launched the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) Mizoram Chapter. Dr VK Paul, Member of NITI Aayog, attended as the guest of honour.

 

Highlighting Mizoram's selection as the first northeastern state to establish a WEP chapter, the Chief Minister acknowledged NITI Aayog’s initiative. "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," the chief minister said.

 

He expressed optimism that more women would benefit from the scheme and affirmed ongoing collaboration with NITI Aayog to expand opportunities.

 

Dr VK Paul commended Mizoram's women for their entrepreneurial drive and financial independence. He described WEP as a crucial tool for economic growth and urged women entrepreneurs to leverage the platform’s resources. Stressing the national importance of women’s empowerment, he reaffirmed NITI Aayog’s dedication to supporting this mission.

 

He stated, "The empowerment of women is crucial for India's overall development, and the Prime Minister himself prioritises this cause. NITI Aayog is committed to supporting this mission, and through WEP, we aim to bring transformative change."

 

Key officials, including Pu Lalmalsawma Pachuau, Secretary, Planning; 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, addressed the gathering, underscoring the importance of women-led businesses.

 

As part of the event, the Chief Minister launched several WEP initiatives:

• WEP State Chapter Mizoram
• Yashasvani Program (in collaboration with the Ministry of MSME)
• Swavalambini Program (in collaboration with the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship)
• WEP Award to Reward Programme (with New Shop)
• WEP App (Beta Version Launch)
• 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. The workshop continued with discussions on strengthening women’s role in entrepreneurship and economic growth.

 

This initiative is expected to drive women’s participation in business, reinforcing Mizoram’s economic landscape and contributing to the national vision of Viksit Bharat.