New Delhi, 03 February (H.S.): Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smriti Savitri Thakur asserted on Monday, February 2, 2026, that India's foundation of social justice and protection is rooted in constitutional values, harmonizing with the long-term vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

Addressing the 64th Session of the Commission for Social Development (CSOCD) at UN Headquarters, Thakur highlighted India's commitment to equal participation of girls and boys in education through enhanced school infrastructure and residential schools in remote areas. Large-scale expansions in piped drinking water, clean cooking fuel, and sanitation facilities have significantly elevated living standards for women and vulnerable groups.

Under financial inclusion initiatives, millions of bank accounts have empowered women as primary beneficiaries of entrepreneurship and credit schemes. Dedicated helplines and integrated service centers nationwide have fortified protection mechanisms for women and children.

Leading the Indian delegation, Thakur reaffirmed India's dedication to inclusive, rights-based social development, embodying the Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas principle through holistic governmental and societal approaches ensuring no segment lags behind. Maternal, child health, and nutrition schemes reach over 100 million beneficiaries, alongside targeted social security for seniors, persons with disabilities, unorganized workers, and transgender individuals.

Thakur emphasized digital public infrastructure and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) systems, which guarantee transparency, efficiency, and accountability in public service delivery. On global challenges, India advocated strengthened multilateral cooperation, capacity building, and South-South collaboration.

Ukraine's UN Permanent Representative Ambassador Kristina Hayovishin chaired the 64th CSOCD session, addressed by UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, General Assembly President H.E. Analena Baerbock, ECOSOC President and Nepal's Ambassador Lok Bahadur Thapa, DESA Assistant Secretary-General Bjorg Sandkjaer, and NGO Committee on Social Development Chair Gillian D'Souza-Nazareth. Over 100 UN member states participated.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar