Mysuru:  City’s ODP (Organisation for the Development of People) felicitated 110 women Gram Panchayat (GP) members from Mysuru, Mandya, Chamarajanagar and Kodagu districts, who were associated with the organisation, at a programme organised in its premises at Bannimantap here on Thursday.

Senior advocate M.S. Savithri, who delivered a special talk on the topic ‘Women Leadership –  The Challenges’ on the occasion, said that women should focus on achieving big in whatever field they choose.

Stressing on the need for developing leadership qualities, she said that women should themselves become a motivational force through dedication and determination. Noting that though there are many women-friendly laws in the Constitution, she said that any goal can be achieved only through a firm mind and self-confidence.

Pointing out that great women personalities such as late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Astronaut Kalpana Chawla should be our role models, she called upon womenfolk to get education as it is vital for success.

Urging women to shun inferiority complex, the senior advocate advised the newly elected women GP members to dedicate themselves for serving the people.

Earlier, Zilla Panchayat (ZP) President Parimala Shyam, who inaugurated the programme, said that it is encouraging to note that women are excelling in many fields. Noting that women were entering politics in good numbers these days, she said that women elected representatives should strive for giving a good administration and maintain transparency. The newly elected GP members should work to become model representatives, she added.

ODP Director Fr. Alex Prashanth Sequeira, who delivered the keynote address, highlighted the growth and services of the ODP in the 37 years of its existence.

Newly elected 110 GP women members were felicitated on the occasion. Bishop of Mysuru Rev. Dr. K.A. William presided.

Administrative Training Institute (ATI) Deputy Director Yashaswini, Fr. C. Rayappa, noted Gynaecologist Dr. Latha, Mahilodaya Mahila Okkuta President Esther Rose, Sunitha, Arogya Mary and others were present.