Bhubaneswar: Odisha Government is determined to bring the persons with disabilities (PwDs) into the mainstream and establish an inclusive society, said Bishnupada Sethi, Principal Secretary of the Social Security and Empowerment of PwDs (SSEPD) Department here on Saturday.
Addressing a session titled ‘Breaking Barriers’ organised as a part of Young Indians’ (Yi) Eastern Regional Council Meet (ERCM) 2024, Sethi highlighted various initiatives and welfare measures including skill development training, collaborations for employment and livelihood options to empower the PwDs in the State. Energy and potential in PwDs should be meaningfully utilised to make them responsible partners in socio-economic growth, he added.
Sharing her journey of empowering PwDs, founder of Mitti Cafe and a renowned social entrepreneur Alina Alam said the persons with disabilities must be treated with equal dignity, opportunities, rights and livelihood. Inclusion requires more compassion, courage and awareness among people in the society, she said and expressed her willingness to set up Mitti Cafes in Odisha in collaboration with SSEPD department.
The session was moderated by past chair of Yi Bhubaneswar Chapter and CEO of Suryo Udyog and Media Mr. Aditya Dash.
An interesting business storytelling session was hosted by noted corporate trainer and storytelling coach Chitrantan Bhabhra. He combined data, ideas, concepts and inspired people to act. He explored insights on business and data storytelling through multiple lenses. The event facilitated dynamic panel discussions, keynote sessions, and interactive workshops.
Yi, an integral part of Confederation of Indian Industries (CII), is an influential movement empowering the youth of India to Converge, Lead, Co-Create, and shape the nation’s future. The ERCM 2024 witnessed participation of youth leaders from 9 chapters across Eastern India. The Eastern Regional Council Meet serves as a dynamic platform for discussions, solutioning and action on affirmative action. More than 200 members including top industrialists of the city participated in the ERCM, contributing to vibrant discussions and sharing best practices for driving sustainable growth in the region.