New Delhi, 13 April (H.S.):
Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared on Monday that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam's enactment ranks among the 21st century's paramount milestones. This landmark legislation not only heralds a historic stride in women's empowerment but also fortifies the nation's democratic edifice.
Addressing the 'Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan' at Vigyan Bhawan, PM Modi proclaimed India's Parliament on the cusp of inscribing anew history, realizing ancestral aspirations and consummating futuristic vows. He underscored the measure's dedication to Nari Shakti, elevating women's role in national development to unprecedented salience.
PM Modi disclosed that the forthcoming parliamentary session will propel its efficacious implementation, with concrete strides via the special session commencing April 16, facilitating women's participation from panchayats to Parliament.
The imperative for legislative women's reservation has resonated for decades, deliberated over four. Cross-party, intergenerational endeavors culminated in its 2023 unanimous passage.
Modi expressed optimism for seamless rollout through dialogue, collaboration, and participation—indispensable for parliamentary dignity and democratic resilience.
He illuminated burgeoning female participation: from President to Finance Minister, women adorn pivotal posts, augmenting national prestige. Panchayati Raj exemplifies this, with over 14 lakh women active in local bodies, surpassing 50% in 21 states—a democratic triumph.
Recounting Gujarat Chief Minister days, Modi evoked a women-led panchayat where an unassuming educated sarpanch aspired to eradicate poverty, an enduring inspiration.
Enhanced female involvement infuses decision-making with empathy, rendering governance efficacious—prompting myriad economic-social empowerment schemes.
Under Jan Dhan Yojana, over 32 crore women bank accounts were opened, integrating them financially; Mudra Yojana disbursed 60%+ loans to women, fueling entrepreneurship.
The startup ecosystem boasts robust female involvement, with 42%+ featuring at least one woman director—emblematic of women-led development.
Modi spotlighted maternity leave extension to 26 weeks, Skill India, Drone Didi, Vocal for Local, alongside life-cycle schemes: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, PM Matru Vandana Yojana, Sukanya Samriddhi, Mission Indradhanush—ensuring holistic advancement for women and girls.
From independence struggle to Constitution-framing, Nari Shakti's contributions remain unparalleled; now, amplify their opportunities, he urged.
Enacted September 2023, the Adhiniyam reserves one-third seats for women in Parliament and assemblies; implementation accelerates.
Eminent women from education, science, sports, entrepreneurship, media, social service graced the conclave. Modi felicitated them, affirming the nation's commitment to actualizing their visions.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
