Ceremonial Launch of 20th FLO Chapter at Siliguri

The ceremonial launch of the 20th Chapter of FICCI FLO at Siliguri was held on May 18, 2024. Siliguri was chosen for its strategic location as the gateway to Northeast India and its dynamic business environment, making it the second FLO chapter in West Bengal, following Kolkata.

Under the leadership of the 41st National President of FLO, Joyshree Das Verma, the event was held at Courtyard by Marriott in Siliguri and featured several distinguished guests and FLO leaders. Ms. Sushmita Dev, Member of Parliament, Rajya Sabha & National Spokesperson for All India Trinamool Congress was the Chief Guest and the Guest of Honors included Ms. Tshering Y. Bhutia, IAS, Commissioner of Siliguri Municipal Corporation, and International Saree Drape Artist Ms. Dolly Jain.

Ms. Sushmita Dev emphasized that empowering women goes beyond mere numbers, requiring power and decision-making abilities to transform their roles from ornamental to substantial. She highlighted the crucial role of networking in this empowerment process, commending organizations like FICCI and FLO for facilitating vital connections that allow women to support each other’s growth. Ms. Tshering Y. Bhutia discussed the necessity for the labor market to evolve, creating inclusive and diverse opportunities for women, and stressed the importance of balancing women’s roles at home and in the workforce through work-life integration. Ms. Dolly Jain shared her inspirational journey from homemaker to renowned saree drape artist, encouraging women to think outside the box and highlighting that passion, perseverance, and hard work are keys to success.

Ms. Joyshree Das Verma underscored FLO’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs, noting that the expansion into Siliguri marks a significant milestone. She expressed confidence that the Siliguri chapter would serve as a catalyst for economic empowerment and gender equality in the Northeastern region.

Ms. Niharika Mitruka was announced as the first Chairperson of FLO Siliguri Chapter. In her acceptance speech, she outlined the goals of the new chapter, emphasizing the creation of a conducive environment for women to thrive in business and providing a platform for women entrepreneurs to connect, collaborate, and access essential resources.

The newly appointed office bearers for the Siliguri chapter include Sr. Vice Chairperson Payal Periwal, Vice Chairperson Tripti Parek, Treasurer Nupur Agarwal, Jt. Treasurer Shivika Mittal, Secretary Dr. Anie Dhandhania, and Jt. Secretary Neha Agarwal. Their leadership is expected to drive the chapter towards achieving its goals and aspirations.

The event witnessed good attendance including Past Presidents Vinita Bimbhet and Jayanti Dalmia along with National Governing Body members, Chairpersons, Past Chairpersons, and other members from across India. Over 100 women entrepreneurs, professional and aspiring entrepreneurs attended the launch event.