Bhubaneswar: SWAKALPA SAHAJOGA II, hosted at The World Skill Center in Bhubaneswar, brought together 100 nano entrepreneurs, mentors, partners, and industry experts, marking the culmination of six months of dedicated mentorship under the Swakalpa program.
Organized by Palladium India, the primary implementation partner for Swakalpa, the event showcased esteemed figures including Smt. Alka Misra (Chairperson OSDA cum CEO WSC), Shri Pinaki Patnaik (Addl. Secretary & COO of WSC), Prajakt Raut (Co-founder and Managing Partner, Caret Capital), Vijaya Krishnappa (Co-founder Kosha), SUBHADEEP SAHA (ZONAL MANAGER – Meesho), Richa Pramod Khuswa (Senior BM, United India Insurance Ltd.), Dr Lopamudra Priyadarshini (Assistant Vice President, Hindalco Industries Limited), Prasanta Biswal (Head CSR & Corporate Relations JSW Group Odisha), Bibhu Prasad Sahoo (MD, Pink Water & Chairman Govt – ITI, Puri), Biswaprakash Rout (Sales Manager Bharat Pe), SHYAMA JHA (FOUNDER – Millets Magic Foundation), and Debika Mukherjee (Founder, Divavi Enterprises).
Swakalpa is a Self-employment & Entrepreneurship Skill Development Program aiding nano entrepreneurs through training, mentorship, credit linkage, and marketing assistance. SWAKALPA SAHAJOGA II aims to uplift nano businesses by providing tools, knowledge, and connections, emphasizing collaboration, innovation, and empowerment in nano-business development.
The highlight of the event was the introduction of the Swakalpa Suraksha initiative with United India Insurance Company Ltd., offering insurance support for nano businesses to mitigate risks and secure their future. Ms. Richa Pramod Kushwa, Senior BM at United India Insurance Ltd., elaborated on how this insurance can safeguard businesses from various risks like fire, natural calamities, burglary, and personal accidents, enhancing their resilience.
Additionally, the Swakalpa Bandhu Platform was launched to provide mentorship from industry experts to accelerate the growth of nano businesses. Mentees can access insights and expertise to make informed decisions and capitalize on growth opportunities, fostering a supportive environment for learning and skill development essential for entrepreneurial success.
The event also featured MOU signings with Kosha, DIVAVI Enterprises-Gaon ka Bazar, Millet Magic Foundation, ONDC, and Bharat Pe to enhance Swakalpa mentees’ access to credit, online marketing, digital transactions, and technology. Interactive sessions were conducted with nano entrepreneurs, offering new opportunities and strategies for scaling.
Sandeep Lanjewar, Director, Palladium, remarked, “Our initiative to connect over 100 nano-entrepreneurs with seasoned mentors and esteemed partners is pivotal for their business growth. Leveraging the expertise of these mentors and partners empowers mentees to confidently tackle challenges and seize opportunities. Our unwavering commitment to supporting these mentees is evident through platforms like SWAKALPA Bandhu and SWAKALPA Suraksha. These platforms not only offer vital insurance support but also facilitate invaluable connections with the right mentors. Together, we are forging a pathway towards sustainable growth and prosperity for all.”
Swakalpa, supported by the Odisha Skill Development Authority, World Skill Center, and Asian Development Bank, and implemented by Palladium, aims to train 10,000 youths in self-employment and establish 1,000 micro-businesses in Odisha, with a focus on ensuring 25% female participation, fostering economic growth by providing entrepreneurs with resources and connections.
