President Droupadi Murmu highlights women’s role in India’s development

New Delhi: On the occasion of International Women’s Day, President of India, Droupadi Murmu, inaugurated the National Conference on ‘Nari Shakti Se Viksit Bharat’ in New Delhi. Organized by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, the event marked 50 years of International Women’s Day, emphasizing gender equality and women’s empowerment in India’s growth story.

Celebrating women’s achievements and gender equality

Addressing the gathering, President Murmu extended her greetings and highlighted the significance of the day in honoring women’s accomplishments and advocating for their rights. She acknowledged the remarkable progress women have made over the past five decades, citing her own journey from a humble background in Odisha to becoming the President as an example of social justice and equal opportunities.

Creating a safe and empowering environment for women

The President stressed the need for an environment where girls can make independent life choices without fear or pressure. She called for a societal transformation where women feel safe and respected, emphasizing that a fear-free atmosphere would enable them to contribute significantly to the nation’s progress.

Recognizing women’s contribution across sectors

Murmu paid tribute to pioneering women such as Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Sucheta Kriplani, and Hansaben Mehta, who played key roles in shaping modern India. She underscored the impact of women in various fields, including science, sports, politics, and social service, stating that recognizing and nurturing women’s talent will elevate the country’s stature.

Enhancing women’s workforce participation

Highlighting the importance of women’s economic participation, President Murmu addressed societal biases that hinder women’s workforce inclusion, such as the perception that they prioritize family responsibilities over careers. She emphasized that childcare is a collective societal responsibility and acknowledged the role of mothers in shaping future generations.

Empowering women for a developed India

President Murmu asserted that India’s progress depends on self-reliant and empowered women. She urged men to support women at every step and encouraged women to move forward with confidence, dedication, and perseverance. Concluding her address, she called for collective efforts to build a developed and inclusive India driven by the strength of its women.