In a compelling and inspirational video address, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi spoke to the esteemed assembly at the G20 Ministerial Conference on Women Empowerment, hosted in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. His words resonated with a commitment to harnessing the potential of women, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping a brighter future. With a focus on women-led development, economic empowerment, and innovative initiatives, the Prime Minister’s address underscored India’s dedication to advancing gender equality and women’s progress on a global scale.
Embracing Gandhi’s Legacy: A Symbolic Welcome
Prime Minister Modi warmly welcomed the dignitaries to Gandhinagar, a city that embodies the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, and expressed his pleasure at their opportunity to visit the revered Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad. He highlighted how Gandhiji’s visionary principles of sustainability, self-reliance, and equality are showcased at the Ashram, offering profound inspiration to all. Drawing a connection between Gandhiji’s legacy and the empowerment of women, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of sustainable solutions, echoing the principles that guided the Father of the Nation.
Women’s Empowerment: Fueling Growth, Progress, and Change
With the powerful adage, “When women prosper, the world prospers,” Prime Minister Modi accentuated the transformative impact of women’s empowerment on the global stage. He emphasized that women’s economic empowerment drives growth, their access to education fuels progress, and their leadership fosters inclusivity. With an unwavering focus on women-led development, the Prime Minister highlighted India’s significant strides in this direction, underscoring the need to harness women’s potential for comprehensive societal advancement.
A Beacon of Leadership: President Smt Droupadi Murmur’s Inspiring Journey
Drawing attention to India’s President Smt Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Modi celebrated her inspiring journey from a humble tribal background to becoming a leader of the world’s largest democracy and the Commander-in-Chief of the second-largest defense force. Highlighting the democratic ethos of equal rights embedded in India’s Constitution, the Prime Minister acknowledged the pivotal role of elected women representatives in driving economic, environmental, and social change. He proudly mentioned that 46% of elected representatives in rural local bodies in India are women, representing a monumental force for progress.
Empowering Initiatives: Transforming Lives and Futures
Prime Minister Modi unveiled the multifaceted initiatives that underscore India’s commitment to women’s empowerment. He highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, wherein 70% of loans up to one million rupees for micro-level units have been sanctioned to women. The Stand-Up India initiative has empowered 80% of its beneficiaries as women, propelling them toward green field projects. The transformative impact of the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, which provided nearly 100 million cooking gas connections to rural women, was also emphasized.
From STEM Graduates to Space Scientists: Women’s Triumph in Education
The Prime Minister lauded the exponential increase in women’s participation in technical education, with the number of women in Industrial Training Institutes doubling since 2014. He proudly shared that nearly 43% of STEM graduates in India are women, and approximately one-fourth of the country’s space scientists are also women. Prime Minister Modi attributed the success of flagship programs like Chandrayaan, Gaganyaan, and Mission Mars to the dedication and hard work of these women scientists.
Driving Change in Diverse Fields
Highlighting the pivotal roles played by women in various sectors, Prime Minister Modi acknowledged their role as the backbone of rural agricultural families, traders, shopkeepers, and innovators. He emphasized their unique perspective on climate change and their role in sustainable practices. The historical significance of the Bishnoi community’s ‘Chipko Movement,’ led by women, was highlighted as a pioneering climate action in India.
Empowering Entrepreneurs and Innovators
Prime Minister Modi celebrated the significant contributions of women entrepreneurs to the global economy. He shared the remarkable story of Shri Mahila Grih Udyog, a cooperative movement that transformed lives through initiatives like Lijjat Papad. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the rise of women-led unicorns in India, emphasizing the need for a level playing field that empowers women achievers across sectors.
