By Chandan Singh | Page 3 News Worldwide | New Delhi
Calls ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Act’ a historic step to empower 700 million women
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Monday underscored the transformative role of women in nation-building while addressing the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ at Vigyan Bhawan, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Highlighting the Centre’s focus on women-centric governance, Gupta said that under Modi’s leadership, dignity and safety of women have become a top priority. She noted that women today are at the heart of decision-making, contributing significantly to India’s growth and global identity.
Tracing the journey of Indian women through decades of social challenges such as child marriage, illiteracy and female foeticide, the Chief Minister said the country has transitioned from the phase of “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” to what she termed as “Beti Badhao”. She credited key government initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Mission, Ujjwala scheme, and Jan Dhan Yojana for improving the quality of life for women through better sanitation, clean cooking fuel, and financial inclusion.
Gupta also highlighted the increasing participation of women in diverse sectors, including the armed forces, noting that women are now flying fighter jets and serving the nation on equal footing.
Calling the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Act’ a landmark reform, she said the provision of 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state assemblies would open leadership avenues for nearly 700 million women. “This is not just a law, but a decisive step towards ensuring women’s active participation in governance,” she said.
Citing leaders like Sushma Swaraj and Nirmala Sitharaman, Gupta emphasized that women have already proven their capability in handling key portfolios at the highest levels.
She also urged women to actively support the initiative by joining the campaign through a missed call, reinforcing the vision of women-led development.
Union Minister Annapurna Devi, Minister of State Savitri Thakur, and National Commission for Women Chairperson Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar were among the dignitaries present, alongside women representatives from across the country.
