Sambalpur, Jan 30: IIM Sambalpur, one of the premier management institutes, signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Department of Women and Child Development (WCD) to collaborate on the Subhadra Scholars Program during Utkarsh Odisha Conclave.
This MoU is signed with an objective to drive women’s empowerment and improve child and adolescent welfare through evidence-based interventions and strategic support in the state.
With this collaboration, IIM Sambalpur marks a significant step in leveraging research expertise and academic excellence to strengthen policy initiatives that support women-led enterprises and financial literacy programs. Moreover, the faculty of the institute will be responsible to conduct research to evaluate policy along with designing and developing strategic frames for implementing and executing the sub-scheme by Subhadra.
Speaking on the occasion, Prof. Mahadeo Jaiswal, Director, IIM Sambalpur, stated, “We are proud to join hands with the WCD Department in advancing the objectives of the Subhadra scheme. This initiative aligns with the institution’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth and empowering women entrepreneurs in Odisha. By bringing rigorous research and strategic insights, we aim to drive impactful policy interventions that will uplift communities and create long-term socio-economic benefits.”
Under this MoU, IIM Sambalpur will undertake a range of initiatives, including:
- Conducting research and real-time assessments to evaluate the impact of the Subhadra scheme.
- Providing policy recommendations to refine the Subhadra scheme’s objectives and enhance its delivery mechanisms.
- Developing monitoring frameworks to track program performance and beneficiary outcomes.
It is to be noted that the Subhadra scheme is a flagship initiative of the Odisha government aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among women and ensuring holistic child development which is expected to help more than one crore women in Odisha offering them direct financial support. Through this partnership, IIM Sambalpur reinforces its commitment to Odisha’s growth story by contributing its expertise in research, strategy, and policy innovation.
This collaboration is an exemplification to the collective efforts of the institute and the government in building an inclusive development and women-led economic progress. IIM Sambalpur stands as a pillar of change that is dedicated to driving impactful change through collaborative engagements that empower communities and strengthen governance frameworks.