Mystical Northeast: FICCI FLO Annual Interstate Meet 2024 in Assam and Meghalaya

The FICCI FLO Annual Interstate Meet 2024 marked a significant milestone in celebrating women’s leadership, culture, and entrepreneurship. Held from December 12\ 16, 2024, in the picturesque states of Assam and Meghalaya, the event brought together FLO members from across the country to foster connections, share knowledge, and collaborate. It also spotlighted the region’s vibrant cultural heritage and entrepreneurial potential.

The event was inaugurated by Joyshree Das Verma, the 41st National President of FLO and the 2 nd National President from the Northeastern region, at Hotel Radisson Blu, Guwahati. Over 350 delegates, including members of the Presidium, Past National Presidents, Chapter Chairs, Governing Body Members, and representatives from Delhi and 20 other chapters, participated in this flagship event.

The Annual Interstate Meet 2024 reinforced FICCI FLO’s mission of empowering women through networking, skill-building, and knowledge- sharing. It provided a platform for strategic discussions, fostering partnerships, and inspiring women entrepreneurs and professionals nationwide.

Key Highlights
3rd Governing Body Meeting
 Held on January 13, 2025, to reflect on learnings and challenges.
 Focused on sharing best practices and strategic planning for the future.

FLO Bazaar
 A vibrant showcase of Northeast India’s exceptional artisanship, featuring handlooms, traditional crafts, and contemporary art.
 The Bazaar celebrated economic empowerment while promoting the rich legacy of the region.

Cultural Evenings
 Delegates were treated to traditional performances such as Gayan-Bayan, Bhor Taal Nritya, the Bihu dance and other folk art forms, alongside a mesmerizing cultural evening on the sandbars of the Brahmaputra after a scenic cruise aboard the Grand Alfresco.
 Entertainment included a musical evening with the SKD Band in Guwahati and Christmas carols paired with traditional dances in Meghalaya.

Panel Discussions
 Inspirational interactive sessions with notable figures, including musician Abhishruti Bezbaruah, international model Madhulika Sharma, and environmentalist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman.

Felicitation of Founding Members
 Honored the pioneering FLO Northeast Chapter team, established in 2007.
 Special felicitation programme, honouring the vision of Past President Kiran Gera who founded the FLO NE Chapter, Founder Chairperson Lalita Jain and key contributors such as Rajkumari Saharia, Anuja Narain, Shashiprabha Jalan, Lalita Agarwal and Past President Jahnabi Phookan.

Offsite Experiences
Assam
 Visits to the sacred Kamakhya Temple and the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, renowned for its rich biodiversity.

Meghalaya
 Following the Guwahati leg, delegates explored the natural beauty of Meghalaya, including Shillong and Cherrapunji
 They witness the scenic beauty of NohKaLikai Falls, Umiam Lake, Living Root Bridge, Mawphlang Sacred Forest and visited the Don Bosco Centre for Indigenous Cultures

Key Messages
 Joyshree Das Verma, FLO National President, underscored the event as a celebration of FLO’s dynamic spirit and the cultural richness of the Northeast.
 Shweta Jindal, Northeast Chapter Chairperson, highlighted the chapter’s dedication to showcasing the region’s heritage while fostering meaningful connections.