WANDIWASH, March 8, 2026 – To honor the spirit of female resilience and entrepreneurship, the ICAR Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Thiruvannamalai, in collaboration with Sri Akilandeswari Women’s College (SAWC), hosted a grand celebration for International Women’s Day today.
The event, held at the SAWC campus, brought together 130 participants, including students, faculty, and local agricultural leaders, to discuss the evolving role of women in the modern economy.
Focus on Agri-Business and Innovation
The celebration went beyond ceremony, focusing on tangible economic empowerment. Experts delivered lectures on the 2026 International Women’s Day theme, highlighting the critical need for women’s inclusion in tech-driven agriculture.
Key discussions centered on business avenues for students, specifically highlighting the untapped potential in agri-related enterprises. Speakers encouraged students to look toward value-addition and sustainable farming as viable career paths.
Exhibition Showcases Local Talent
A major highlight of the day was the exhibition organized by beneficiaries of the ICDS and MSME programs. The display featured:
- Millet Value-Added Products: Showcasing nutritious, ready-to-eat snacks and grains.
- Mushroom Cultivation: Demonstrating high-yield, small-scale farming techniques suitable for home-based businesses.
Honoring Local Trailblazers
In a move to inspire the younger generation, three local success stories were put in the spotlight. KVK honored three prominent entrepreneurs for their exceptional contributions to the agricultural sector:
- Mrs. Manimozhi
- Mrs. Kalaiselvi
- Mrs. Kavitha
These women were lauded for their dedication to building sustainable agri-enterprises and serving as role models for the Wandiwash community.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by several prominent figures, including:
- Shri Ramana, Chairman of SAWC, who offered the opening remarks.
- Shri Vijay M Neehar, DDM, NABARD, who discussed financial support systems for women-led startups.
- Shri Kumaran (ADA, Thellar), Smt. Kannagi (CPDO, Vandavasi), and Smt. Rukmani (Principal, SAWC), who all emphasized the need for continued institutional support for women’s growth.
The day concluded with a call to action for students to bridge the gap between traditional farming and modern business practices, ensuring a more equitable future for rural India.