Panel discussion on women entrepreneurship at IMI global conference

An insightful women entrepreneurship panel discussion centred on women’s leadership, caregivers, and mental health was held at the International Management Institute, Kolkata. The event brought together accomplished women leaders and policymakers to share their personal journeys, professional insights, and lived experiences.

Titled “Purpose-Driven Women Leaders: Re-designing India’s Development Story,”, the discussion featured psychotherapist Dr. Minu Budhia (founder, Carring Minds International and ICanFlyy International School), Priyadarshini Bhattacharya from panchayats & rural development department, Sanaya Mehta Vyas (director, Selvel One Group) and Manjir Chatterjee (founder, Folk Products). The session was moderated by Prof. Soni Agrawal (professor, OB & HR, International Management Institute).

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Reflecting on her journey, Dr Budhia said, “You cannot pour from an empty cup. The first step is self-care. And this is something I have learned both through my life experience and as a mental health professional. Also, when faced with adversity, you must first accept it and only then will you be able to turn a challenge into an opportunity. Till I accepted that my younger daughter Prachi, diagnosed with ADHD, Low IQ, and Bipolar Disorder, was a special child, I ran pillar to post across the world trying to find solutions that would make her fit in. But the day I accepted her for who she was, someone beautifully special who gave my life purpose, I saw the opportunity to help children like her and families like mine who had earlier suffered so much due to the lack of easy access to high-quality mental healthcare.”

The keynote address was given by Suresh Kumar, Chairman and Managing Director of Damodar Valley Corporation. He spoke on net zero as a challenge and the intelligent use of digital technology as a multiplier for climate action.

Ms Priyadarshini Bhattacharya, IAS, said, “I had a very comfortable life while I was working at the ILO, but I felt hollow. I wanted to do something for my country. SHGs are empowering women, giving them agency, giving them options – all of which give dignity. To students: don’t get easily impressed by anyone or anything. Ask, question, interrogate.”