IAS Amrit Vikas Topno Empowering Women, Transforming the district of Sakti, Chhattisgarh

IAS Amrit Vikas Topno is a 2014 Batch officer of Chhattisgarh cadre and is currently posted as Collector of  Sakti, Chhattisgarh.Known for his progressive administration,Topno has placed women empowerment at the heart of its development strategy in Sakti.

He envisions a district where women are the drivers of social and economic progress - educated, self reliant, and confident to lead change within their communities.

To achieve this a 3Es approach is in action- Educate, Employ, and Empower.With a focused strategy across three key sectors education, employment, and health, Sakti is steadily building a model of inclusive growth that uplifts women at every stage of life.

1. Education: From Attendance to Aspiration

Recognizing education as the foundation of empowerment, Sakti has taken innovative steps to ensure every girl attends school with dignity. IoT-enabled sanitary pad vending machines have been installed across schools to provide easy and uninterrupted access to menstrual hygiene. Complementing this,extensive sensitization and awareness sessions with adolescent girls, teachers, and parents are being conducted to break taboos and promote open discussions on menstrual health.

Beyond hygiene,AI training programs have been introduced for girl students.By introducing young minds to emerging technologies, the aim is to bridge the gender gap in STEM fields and encourage girls to dream beyond traditional career roles.Together,these efforts are transforming schools into spaces of empowerment and aspiration.

2. Employment: Creating Opportunities through ‘Sangini’

Economic independence is one of the most important pillars of Sakti’s empowerment mission.The district has launched a flagship initiative, ‘Sangini’ brand which showcases products made by local women’s groups.Under this, women have been trained in skill development, product design and entrepreneurship.“From premium candles to kosa silk,these women are making mark in entrepreneurship by generating orders worth several lakhs of rupees.”He shared

Additionally,to strengthen their sustainability and reach, market linkages and digital sales platforms have been facilitated.Today, Sangini stands not only as a brand of quality but as a symbol of dignity and determination.

3. Empowering Health: Nurturing Strength from Within

Health forms the third critical pillar of the district’s approach. Under this Special attention has been given to tackling anaemia and tuberculosis, through regular screening camps, nutrition drives and awareness campaigns across villages and schools to ensure early detection and timely treatment.

By integrating these health initiatives with educational and livelihood programs, Sakti is ensuring that women are healthy, capable and ready to lead.        

Through these initiatives,IAS Amrit Vikas Topno is writing a new chapter towards Inclusion and Independence in Sakti.