‘Women Industrial Park’ to set up in the State for Women Entrepreneurs: Minister P. Rajeeve

Thrissur: Kerala Government will establish a Women Industrial Park exclusively for women entrepreneurs, announced Industries Minister P. Rajeeve while inaugurating the Kerala Women Entrepreneurs Conclave 2025 at the Lulu Convention Centre, Thrissur. The initiative aims to elevate women entrepreneurs to the next phase of growth and development.

The Minister highlighted that, compared to the past, a significant number of women are now stepping forward as entrepreneurs. As a result, the women constitute 31% of the total entrepreneurs registered during the Year of Entrepreneurship, he noted.

The Industries Department has launched ‘Mission 1000’, an ambitious initiative aimed at transforming 1,000 MSMEs into enterprises with annual turnover of ₹1 crore each. So far, 444 enterprises have already been selected under this mission.

To further promote women entrepreneurs, the government has introduced key amendments to existing regulations. Under the revised norms, up to 50% of residential houses in panchayats can now be converted for business purposes, while 100% of vacant houses can be utilized to start enterprises. The government will also ensure the necessary skill development support for women entrepreneurs.

Additionally, the Industries Department is providing financial assistance to help entrepreneurs showcase their products at international exhibitions. The Minister also stated that women entrepreneurs are being encouraged to leverage e-commerce platforms to enhance their online market presence.

Over 1,200 women entrepreneurs from various districts participated in the conclave, where the Single Window System—providing all necessary support for starting a business under one roof—emerged as a major attraction. Entrepreneurs had the opportunity to directly connect with banks, financial institutions, UDYAM, KSWIFT, GST, and e-commerce platforms through dedicated government help desks.

Panel discussions were also held on topics such as ‘The Role of Women in Technology-Driven Production’ and ‘Support Schemes for Women Entrepreneurs from Central and State Governments’.

Minister for Higher Education Dr. R. Bindu visited the conclave and interacted with entrepreneurs. The event was presided over by District Panchayat President V.S. Prince. Industries Department Principal Director A.P.M. Mohammed Hanish IAS delivered the keynote address. Also present were Annie Jula Thomas IAS (Officer on Special Duty, Industries Department), P. Vishnuraj IAS (Director, Industries Department), R. Harikrishnan IRTS (Executive Director, KSIDC), K. Ajithkumar (Executive Chairman, BPT), and Jyoti Deepak Ashwani (FICCI representative).