The Gonasika Mahotsav 2024 in Keonjhar, Odisha, is a significant event promoting women's development and empowerment. The festival encourages local art, culture, tradition, and rural crafts, and provides a platform for Mission Shakti mothers to sell their handiwork. The festival has generated substantial business opportunities and aims to boost tourism in Keonjhar showcasing its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Mission Shakti mothers in Keonjhar have conducted business worth Rs 75 lakh so far, with an estimated total of Rs 3 crore by the end of the festival. The government processed 3.36 lakh Subhadra applications in Keonjhar, with 78,000 women set to receive installments in January.
Deputy Chief Minister, Smt. Pravati Parida mentioned "Our government is a people's government and we will do what we have said. Subhadra assistance will be provided till the last beneficiary is reached." She added "Women empowerment, social and economic development of women are our commitment. In Keonjhar district, out of 4 lakh 44 thousand 375 Subhadra applications, 3 lakh 36 thousand 286 people have received Subhadra assistance, and field verification of 65 thousand has also been completed. When the fourth phase of Subhadra is given in January, 78 thousand women in Keonjhar will get the first installment of Subhadra."
Mohan Majhi's government aims to create 30 lakh 'Lakhpati Didis' by 2027, with 69,000 more women identified. Keonjhar, a sacred land with immense tourism potential, aims to become an industrially prosperous district.
