Bhubaneswar: A panel discussion themed on 'Self-reliant women, the source of success' was organised in the third edition of Odisha-50  held here in the Capital. Director-cum-CEO of Odisha Livelihood Mission N Thirumala Naik and Director of Indus Engineering College (IEC) Prasanna Pati voiced their opinions by participating in the event.

"The condition of women is not was it was 50 years back. They have achieved feats in education, sports and myriad other fields apart from becoming increasingly capable of making their own decisions and becoming self-reliant. There has been improvement in maternal and infant mortality. Around 70 lakh women in the State have been included in Mission Shakti and self help groups. Various schemes are being devised by the Odisha government with Chief minister Naveen Patnaik's focus on turning SHGs into small and medium enterprises," he said adding that small enterprises gradually turn into large-scale ventures.

Director of IEC Pati said it would be incorrect to assume that there are more opportunities for women in urban areas as compared to rural areas. However, there is lack of adequate information and connectivity. Rural women are more courageous and competent. But in the society that we live in, a woman's first priority is her home, husband and children. She takes out time for herself only after getting over with domestic responsibilities. A woman who puts herself and her happiness and goals first, is looked down upon by others. This fundamental thinking needs to change. A happy woman ensures a happy family. Education has reached our villages but the need of the hour now is more employability. Rural women produce a lot of things but lag behind due to lack of marketing knowledge and facility," he added.