Ahmedabad 20 March 2025: Madhu Banthia officially assumed the role of Chairperson of the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) Ahmedabad on Thursday, succeeding Kiran Sewani. The event also featured an engaging performance by stand-up comedian Gaurav Gupta.
In her inaugural address, Ms Banthia outlined her vision for the year, aligning with FLO National’s agenda of Viksit Bharat 2047, with a strong focus on women’s skilling and empowerment. She said that for FLO members, the skilling initiatives will be centred on financial literacy and digital competence, aimed at making them financially savvy. For other women, training will include financial education, digital payments, and entrepreneurship.
She said that they will also focus on textile and handloom training, leveraging Gujarat’s rich heritage to empower women artisans. Recognising the growing wedding sector, FLO Ahmedabad will train women in mehndi art, sweet making, floral décor, makeup, trousseau packing, and more. For rural communities, the focus will be on strengthening the handicrafts and handlooms sector, ensuring that women artisans gain access to better opportunities and market linkages.
“By equipping women with these skills, we are opening up livelihood opportunities for them,” she said.
Ms Banthia also emphasised the importance of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education and pledged support to prepare young girls for higher education and future career opportunities. She shared that sustainability will be a key pillar of her tenure and women will be trained in repurposing, recycling, and reusing materials, in alignment with eco-friendly practices.
The new FLO Ahmedabad chairperson also announced plans to prioritise holistic health and wellness, recognising its importance in today’s fast-paced world. FLO Ahmedabad will organise yoga sessions, fitness workshops, and medical camps to help members enhance their overall well-being.
