Aizawl: Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma on Thursday launched the Mizoram chapter of Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), the first such platform in the Northeast under NITI Aayog.
The launch, held during a state workshop on women-led development through entrepreneurship at Mizoram University (MZU) at Tanhril near Aizawl under the initiative of the NITI Aayog state support mission, was attended by NITI Aayog member Dr VK Paul.
Lalduhoma expressed gratitude to Niti Aayog for selecting Mizoram as the first state in the northeast region to establish a WEP chapter.
“The presence of VK 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,” he said.
“To support young and aspiring entrepreneurs, the state govt 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,” Lalduhoma said.
Dr Paul lauded Mizoram’s women for their entrepreneurial spirit and financial independence.
He said the WEP 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.
“The empowerment of women is crucial for India’s overall development, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself prioritises this cause. NITI Aayog is committed to supporting this mission, and through WEP, we aim to bring transformative change,” he stated.
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During the occasion, Lalduhoma also launched various WEP initiatives, including. 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) and Awards to Women Entrepreneurs (by Make My Trip).
