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. Madhusmita Sahoo’s inspiring journey exemplifies the potential of rural entrepreneurship when effectively supported by dedicated government initiatives like the Lakhpati Didi programme. Her story reaffirms that with proper resources, training, and market linkages, women entrepreneurs in Odisha can become powerful contributors to their families, communities, and the state's economic development, paving the way towards a progressive and inclusive Odisha.   Tanuja Mohanty PRO

Home State Health Minister Reviews Preparedness – Directs Officials to Ensure Robust Measures Against Seasonal Diseases

State - April 3, 2025

Health Minister Reviews Preparedness – Directs Officials to Ensure Robust Measures Against Seasonal Diseases

team maverick April 3, 2025

0 5 min read

**- Officials to Stay on Alert Mode, Conduct Regular Inspections

Adequate Arrangements for Testing, Medicines, and Treatment**

Jaipur – Rajasthan’s Minister of Medical and Health, Shri Gajendra Singh Khimsar, has directed all district officials to stay on high alert and ensure prompt preparations to combat seasonal diseases during the upcoming summer. With the India Meteorological Department warning of extreme heat and heatwaves, he emphasized that medical institutions must have sufficient arrangements for testing, medicines, and treatment. He also warned that any negligence in preparedness would result in disciplinary action against responsible officials.

The Minister issued these directives during a high-level review meeting held via video conference at the State Health Headquarters on Wednesday. He instructed officials to continuously monitor seasonal disease outbreaks at the state level and conduct regular field inspections. Additionally, divisional and district-level officials were asked to carry out mandatory inspections in their respective areas to ensure that medical infrastructure remains well-prepared.

Immediate Alternative Staffing Arrangements

Reviewing the availability of doctors and nursing staff, Shri Khimsar instructed that wherever there is a shortage of medical personnel, alternative arrangements must be made immediately. Local authorities were directed to hire contractual medical staff as per regulations. He also ordered all districts to submit a detailed report on human resource availability in medical institutions by Thursday afternoon.

Timely Procurement and Maintenance of Essential Resources

The Health Minister emphasized that fans, coolers, air conditioners, and other essential equipment should be available in all medical institutions. He directed officials to procure and maintain these resources in a timely manner using funds from Rajasthan Medical Relief Society (RMRS), if required. Additionally, support from donors, NGOs, and philanthropists could be sought. Control rooms will be set up in all districts, and emergency medical services in hospitals will be strengthened. Shri Khimsar also stressed the need to ensure fully functional ambulances equipped with life-saving devices. Public awareness campaigns on seasonal disease prevention will also be conducted.

Filling Vacancies in Trauma Centers and FRUs

The Minister reviewed the functioning of trauma centers and First Referral Units (FRUs) across all districts. Recognizing their critical role in saving lives, he assured that the state government is committed to providing essential manpower and equipment to ensure their effective operation. Any staff or equipment shortages affecting these centers will be addressed promptly, and vacant positions will be filled at the earliest.

Proactive Measures for Seasonal Disease Preparedness

Gayatri Rathore, Principal Secretary of the Medical and Health Department, informed that the department is taking a proactive approach to ensure timely preparations for seasonal disease prevention and treatment during the summer. She directed that staff shortages in medical institutions be addressed immediately, vacant positions be filled, and timely supply of essential medicines be ensured. Regular monitoring of medical services and preparedness will also be carried out.

The meeting was attended by Secretary of Medical Education Shri Ambrish Kumar, RMSCL Managing Director Neha Giri, CEO of Rajasthan State Health Assurance Agency Priyanka Goswami, NHM Additional Mission Director Dr. T. Shubhamangala, Director of Public Health Dr. Ravi Prakash Sharma, and Director (Non-Gazetted) Rakesh Sharma, along with other senior officials. Additionally, principals of medical colleges, superintendents, zonal joint directors, CMHOs, PMOs, and other officials joined via video conference.