Mumbai, January 27, 2023: Dow Chemical International Pvt Ltd (Dow India) partners with Mann Deshi Foundation for the 5th edition of Mann Deshi Mahotsav held from January 5th to 8th, 2023 at Ravindra Natya Mandir, Prabhadevi, Mumbai. After a hiatus of two years, the event brings together a plethora of engaging and exciting activities and products by rural women entrepreneurs, artisans, and farmers.
The Mann Deshi Mahotsav was initiated to provide women entrepreneurs from rural areas with a platform to sell their products and provide them with long-term linkages to a better-paying marketplace.
On the Inaugural day, the chief guest Mr. Chandrakant Nayak, CEO, and Country President Dow India along with other dignitaries, expressed their gratitude for beginning 2023 surrounded with strong, innovative women entrepreneurs who are playing notable roles as an inspiration and influencer to their communities. He iterated, “It is a delight to be part of the Mann Deshi Mahotsav and witness the empowerment of rural women from the ground above. Being part of their journey of confidence and knowledge gives us immense hope and satisfaction for our Inclusive future. Dow India is confident and will aim to continue supporting their journey to success and assist the women through our technology expertise & volunteerism.”
Through CSR partnership programs, Dow India has been striving to encourage and fuel rural entrepreneurs and support initiatives by women to provide them exposure to bigger opportunities in Chiplun, Maharashtra, since its inception in 2017. The programs promote business acumen, business operating knowledge, and skill development of rural women to advance their role as entrepreneurs and support their dreams to be equal contributors to the family, elevating their social status in society. The event also witnessed about 60 plus volunteers from Dow India, aiding the participants and supporting the event management team. Dow India showcased the plastic upcycled bags, made from the plastic waste collected, a by-product of the waste management project - ‘My Sustainability Corner’ in collaboration with Sahyadri Nisarga Mitra, in Chiplun, Maharashtra, to promote sustainability.
This year more than 35,000 visitors experienced the delight of products by rural entrepreneurs. As an important enabler and growth accelerator for all women entrepreneurs, the program boosts their self-confidence, entrepreneurship skills, and annual income.
Over the course of four days, there were various market stalls to browse through and events showcasing the state's culture. The Mahotsav was filled with amazing cultural performances, sports activities, and product displays and was a treat for all visitors.
About Dow Chemical International Pvt Ltd
Dow Chemical International Private Limited (Dow India) aims to be the most innovative, sustainable, inclusive customer-centric materials science company. The company is committed to delivering the right solutions to its customers’ challenges. With broadest technology sets spanning performance materials, industrial intermediates, and plastics Dow India delivers differentiated science-based products and solutions in high-growth segments, such as packaging, infrastructure, and consumer care.
A certified Great Place to Work®, with over 1000 employees, its operations are spread over six locations in the country, comprising of three manufacturing sites, three established Centers of Excellence, one commercial office. As a responsible corporate, the company supports its Corporate Social Responsibility (program) with technology expertise and employee volunteerism. Dow India works with non-profit partners towards the empowerment of differently abled, women, and children in communities where it operates. The company aims to redefine the societal blueprint, by supporting holistic sustainability and circular economy initiatives.
For further information, please contact:
Ajay Nair
Anair9@dow.com
Shilpee Bachhalsa
Shilpee.bachhasla@astrum.com