Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (NP)
Udupi, Feb 8: The much-anticipated 5th edition of Power Parba was inaugurated with great enthusiasm at Christian PU College, Udupi. The event, organized by the POWER and central government in collaboration with the MSME PMS Scheme and the District Industries Centre (DIC), aims to empower women entrepreneurs and promote small businesses.
Dr Kavita Mishra, a progressive farmer and agropreneur, addressed the gathering as the chief guest. In her inaugural speech, she said, "People buy milk daily, but if they see a farmer milking a cow, they stay away due to the smell of dung. Despite working day and night, farmers have no power to set prices. I studied engineering with advanced programming knowledge, but after marriage, I couldn’t work outside.”
She further said, "When I started farming, I chose pomegranates and succeeded because each fruit weighed around 500 grams. But when the weather changed one year, my harvest failed. Society isolated and criticized me, but my husband stood by my side. My mother gave me birth, but my husband gave me rebirth. My daughter inspired me to turn farming into a business, proving that agriculture is the best industry. I believe all women are achievers because they are unique. You don’t need to satisfy society—just your family. I have seen sorrow, happiness, and success, and I have learned that a simple life is the best life. If you're facing challenges, trust that it is part of God's plan."
Dr K Vidya Kumari, IAS, deputy commissioner, addressed the gathering, saying, "This Power Parba in Udupi is a great initiative for the district. The institute has grown from 11 members to over 100, and today, with 150 stalls run by women, we see their spirit and creativity. For the past two months, the team has worked hard to make this event a success. I urge the people of Udupi to visit and support these women. Let this institute grow from 100 to over 1,000 members. The government offers various schemes for women, from labor to finance. I encourage all women to take advantage of them and achieve their dreams. Dr Kavita Mishra, our chief guest, comes from a farming background and is an inspiration. Farmers work tirelessly, and she has reached great heights through her dedication. Power has empowered many women, may it continue to inspire and uplift more."
Tanuja Maben, president of POWER welcomed the gathering. Priya Kamath, secretary, and Suguna S Suvarna, event coordinator introduced the gathering. Renu Jayaram, Pushpa Ganesh, and Tara Timmaiah, introduced the guests, Archana Rao delivered the vote of thanks, Dr Poojan Kamath and Supriya Kamath compered the event.
The event witnessed the presence of Dr Kavita Mishra, progressive farmer and Agropreneur; Dr K Vidya Kumari, IAS, deputy commissioner, Udupi; Dr K Socrates, joint director, HoO, MSME, Bengaluru; Yashpal Suvarna, MLA, Udupi; Pramod Madhwaraj, former Minister, Govt of Karnataka; Nagaraj V Nayak, joint director, District Industries Centre, Udupi; Dr A P Achar, CEO, AIC Nitte Incubation Center; Naresh Kumar, regional head, Union Bank; Rajani Hebbar, vice president, City Municipality; POWER members and others were present.