Women self-help groups (SHG) to be restructured, announces Odisha Deputy CM Pravati Parida

In a significant step towards strengthening the grassroots women's empowerment network, the Odisha government is all set to restructure the existing Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the state this month. Following this, fresh appointments will be made at both the district and state levels for GPLF (Gram Panchayat Level Federation), CLF (Cluster Level Federation), and BLF (Block Level Federation) in the coming month.

Many Women Left Out By Previous Government

This major announcement was made by Odisha Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, who is also overseeing the flagship Mission Shakti initiative of the state government. Highlighting the shortcomings of the previous government, she stated that many deserving women were left out of SHGs under earlier regimes.

The new initiative aims to include every household under Mission Shakti, ensuring inclusive development and empowerment. Accusing the former government of politically motivated group formations, Parida said, “Earlier, people were added to SHGs based on political interests rather than genuine inclusion.”

In a bid to bring more fairness and accountability into the system, all members will now be given the opportunity to participate in upcoming GPLF elections. Leaders who have served as President or Secretary for two consecutive terms exceeding four years will not be allowed to continue in their posts. New individuals will be brought into leadership roles, replacing the old ones to bring fresh energy and ideas into the movement.

The Odisha Deputy CM also raised concerns over the alleged financial mismanagement during the previous government’s tenure. She revealed that crores of rupees were disbursed to SHGs without proper registration, leading to a complete lack of audits.

“Without registration and audit, the intention behind such financial dealings becomes questionable,” she said.

The upcoming restructuring is expected to bring transparency, better financial accountability, and equal representation to the SHG ecosystem across Odisha. The government has reiterated its commitment to empowering women and uplifting rural communities through systematic reforms and people-first policies.