India champions women’s role in governance, aims to be global power
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu: Assistant Chief Editor
New Delhi: Addressing the delegates at the African-Asian Rural Development Organization (AARDO) conference in New Delhi on Friday, Vice President Dr. Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized that women’s participation in governance is crucial for equality and reducing inequities.
Women’s empowerment in governance
Dr. Dhankhar stated that India is among the few nations with constitutionally structured participation of women in governance. He highlighted that one-third of village and municipal seats are reserved for women, ensuring their active role in decision-making. “Lakhs of women are being elected through the Panchayat and Cooperative election process, proving the nation’s commitment to women’s empowerment at every level,” he said.
India’s economic transformation
Speaking on India’s progress, Dr. Dhankhar noted significant changes in the past decade across education, economy, and infrastructure sectors such as internet access, electricity, LPG, and sanitation. He highlighted India’s rise in digital transactions, stating, “India accounts for over 50% of the global digital transactions, surpassing the US and China in per capita internet usage.”
Aiming for global economic leadership
The Vice President said India’s economy has surged from double-digit global rankings to the fifth position, and is projected to become the world’s third-largest economy within two years. He recalled India’s financial struggles in the past when gold had to be deposited in Swiss banks to sustain fiscal credibility, contrasting it with the present, where the country’s foreign exchange reserves have soared to $700 billion.
Addressing global challenges
Dr. Dhankhar warned that the world is facing existential threats, particularly climate change, hunger, and poverty. He stressed that reckless exploitation of natural resources is to blame, adding, “This planet is not just for human beings, but for all living beings.”
He asserted that India is leveraging technology to combat poverty, curb corruption, and enhance transparency and accountability. The Vice President concluded by stating that the AARDO conference would play a pivotal role in shaping global stability, with rural development, agriculture, and cooperative sectors being key drivers.
