The Escalera Women Fest 2026 officially kicked off in Thiruvananthapuram, marking a week-long celebration dedicated to women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, cultural expression and social progress. The festival, jointly organised by the Department of Women and Child Development and the Kerala State Women’s Development Corporation, runs from February 3 to February 9 at the Kanakakunnu Palace Grounds and Nishagandhi Auditorium.
The event opened with the prestigious ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) awards, recognising outstanding district administrations — including those from Thrissur and Wayanad — and state-level achievers for excellence in implementing women and child development schemes. These honours set the tone for a festival focused on acknowledging strong leadership and dedicated service in social welfare programmes.
A key feature of Escalera 2026 is its theme-based conclaves and seminars, where experts, policymakers and women leaders discuss strategies to expand economic opportunities for women, enhance access to markets and strengthen community support systems. Entrepreneurship training sessions and workshop series are empowering participants with practical skills in business, leadership and innovation.
In addition to policy dialogue and capacity-building activities, the festival includes a large exhibition and trade fair, showcasing products and services from over 200 women entrepreneurs. The displays highlight diversity in women-led enterprises, spanning traditional crafts, technology, sustainable goods and service initiatives.
Cultural programmes throughout the week feature performances, art showcases and community gatherings that celebrate women’s creativity and shared heritage. Plans for book releases, project logo unveilings (such as the Chuvadukal Project) and announcements on electrification of anganwadis and child-friendly audit achievements are expected to draw significant attention later in the festival.
As the Escalera Women Fest continues, it aims not only to honour past achievements but also to chart new pathways for women’s economic and social empowerment across Kerala.
News as reported
