Bhubaneswar: In a move aimed at strengthening women’s empowerment and digital inclusion, the Odisha government has announced the provision of smartphones, official identity cards, and a new uniform dress code for women associated with the Mission Shakti programme.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the new dress code will come into effect from April 1, coinciding with Utkal Dibas, and described the initiative as a symbolic new beginning for lakhs of women working under Mission Shakti across the state.
Alongside the dress code, Mission Shakti members will receive official identity cards, which are expected to facilitate smoother interaction with government departments, banks, and financial institutions, reducing delays and confusion during official and financial processes.
The government will also distribute smartphones to eligible members to enhance digital access. Officials said the devices will enable online payments, financial transactions, access to welfare schemes, and improved promotion of self-help group activities, thereby strengthening financial inclusion and operational efficiency.
The initiative is aimed at boosting confidence, independence, and visibility of women engaged in grassroots development work. Officials said the move reflects the state’s broader focus on women-led development, recognising that empowerment in the modern economy requires both digital connectivity and institutional identity.
-OdishaAge
