NITI Aayog Hosts Workshop on Women Entrepreneurship in Mizoram

Under its State Support Mission, NITI Aayog held the Third State Workshop on Enabling Women-led Development through Entrepreneurship. The workshop, organized in collaboration with the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) and the Government of Mizoram, took place at Mizoram University, Aizawl, on 27 February 2025. The event focused on empowering women entrepreneurs in the north-eastern region and was attended by representatives from all eight north-eastern states.

The Chief Guest, Chief Minister of Mizoram, Shri Lalduhoma, speaking at the inaugural session said, “Women entrepreneurs in Mizoram have demonstrated remarkable potential and resilience, yet challenges like access to capital and markets persist. Through initiatives like the Mizoram Bana Kaih Handholding Scheme, we are shifting from a welfare-driven approach to an empowerment-based model—where individuals are not just beneficiaries but active contributors to the state’s progress. I encourage more women to step forward, as their innovation and determination will define the future of Mizoram. The government stands with them in this journey towards economic and social transformation.” He urged the participants to register on the WEP platform (www.wep.gov.in) and get benefits from all the programs that were launched.

Shri Lalnghinglova Hmar, Minister of Labour, Employment Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Department (LESDE), Government of Mizoram said that the launch of the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) State Chapter in Mizoram marks a transformative step in empowering our women entrepreneurs. This initiative would be ensuring that our women entrepreneurs truly benefit from it, unlocking new opportunities for economic growth and self-reliance in the state

Dr. Vinod K Paul, Hon’ble Member, NITI Aayog, addressed the gathering with a vision for Viksit Bharat 2047, emphasizing the role of women entrepreneurs in shaping India’s economic future. He underscored the importance of localizing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem in the North-east. He mentioned, “By combining the visionary initiatives of the state government with the support of WEP, we are creating a sustainable and inclusive environment where women entrepreneurs can thrive, scale their businesses, and contribute to India’s economic transformation.”

Shri Khilli Ram Meena, Chief Secretary, Government of Mizoram, highlighted the government’s initiatives in fostering women’s entrepreneurship, stressing the importance of financial access, skill development, digital literacy, and mentorship.

Ms. Anna Roy, Principal Economic Advisor, NITI Aayog, and Mission Director, WEP, stated:

“The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) is a catalyst for change, bringing together government, private sector, and civil society to build a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem for women. By addressing critical needs such as access to finance, markets, skilling, and mentorship, WEP empowers women entrepreneurs to scale their businesses and contribute to economic growth.”

Key Highlights of the Workshop:

1. WEP Mizoram State Chapter

The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) launched its Mizoram State Chapter, making it the first in Northeast India. This initiative aims to strengthen regional support for women entrepreneurs by providing resources, mentorship, and business opportunities.

2. New Shop ATR Launch in Northeast

As part of WEP’s Award to Reward (ATR) initiative, the New Shop ATR program was launched to support women entrepreneurs in the retail sector. ATR has already impacted 750+ women across nine cohorts, addressing their business needs and rewarding exceptional performances. The New Shop Award to Reward (ATR) program was launched to support women entrepreneurs in the retail sector. Ten selected participants will receive intensive training, mentorship, and financial assistance, with two outstanding performers being rewarded.

3. Awards to Women Entrepreneurs – Project Maitri

As part of the Award to Reward initiative, outstanding women homestay entrepreneurs from Northeast India were honored under Project Maitri. The winners include Monika Devi (Eco Heritage Villa), Lopamudra Bharali (Jazzabor with Private Kitchen), and Barsha Sharma (Nolina Boutique Homestay). This program, launched in Arunachal Pradesh, provided intensive training to help women scale their tourism ventures.

4. WEP App – Beta Version

The beta version of the WEP App was launched to digitize entrepreneurial support for women. The app will provide easy access to mentorship, funding, resources, and networking opportunities, fostering a stronger ecosystem for women-led businesses.

5. Panel Discussions and Workshops – Covering topics such as government policies, financial access, and fostering young women entrepreneurs. The workshop witnessed an overwhelming response, with over 500 participants, including women entrepreneurs, college students, local self-help groups, government officials, industry leaders, incubators, financial institutions, and philanthropic foundations. Engaging sessions provided valuable insights and knowledge to strengthen women entrepreneurs’ journeys, while a tech experience center curated by the SELCO Foundation showcased innovative sustainable technology solutions by women entrepreneurs in the North East along with other exhibitions organised by DONeR, ADP and Government of Mizoram.

The success of the workshop reaffirms WEP’s commitment to fostering a more inclusive, resilient, and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem for women across India, especially in the North-East.