New Delhi, 08 March (H.S.): Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi declared Nari Shakti as the cornerstone of a developed India, marking the nation's transition from women’s development to women-led growth. The FY 2026-27 Gender Budget’s historic allocation exceeding ₹5 lakh crore underscores this commitment, with a whole-of-government approach enhancing education, health, nutrition, and safety.

Addressing a ceremony at Manekshaw Centre on International Women’s Day 2026, Devi celebrated India’s demographic half powering Viksit Bharat through resolve and accomplishments. Adopting a lifecycle strategy—from girl child birth and education via Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, which reshaped societal mindsets into festive welcomes for daughters.India leads globally with 43% female participation in STEM; women scientists propelled the Mangal Mission.

Budget provisions for women’s hostels in every district herald new pathways. Initiatives like Poshan Abhiyaan and PM Matru Vandana Yojana ensure safe maternity and infant care, slashing maternal mortality to 97.

A healthy woman forges a robust nation; recent PM-launched HPV vaccination combats cervical cancer. She-Box portal bolsters workplace safety across sectors, enforcing zero tolerance against crimes on women’s dignity—elevating female labor participation from 22.3% to 41.7% in six years.

Schemes like Mudra Yojana, Stand-Up India, and PM Svanidhi propel women entrepreneurs to new heights. Under PM guidance, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam heralds democratic renewal, mandating 33% reservation in legislatures—ensuring every third parliamentary seat held by a woman, amplifying maternal influence in policymaking.

Minister of State Savitri Thakur attended the event.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar