On International Women’s Day, India joins the global community in recognizing women’s achievements and acknowledging the ongoing challenges they face. This article explores the steps taken by the government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to promote women’s empowerment and the progress observed across various sectors.
Why Women’s Day is Celebrated on March 8th?
Why March 8th? The date of International Women’s Day has roots in the early 20th century and the fight for women’s rights. While the exact origin is debated, it’s strongly linked to the women’s movement during the Russian Revolution of 1917. After the revolution, March 8th became a national holiday in Russia to celebrate women’s contributions. Over time, the day gained international recognition, and by the 1970s, the United Nations officially adopted March 8th as International Women’s Day.
Key Government Schemes for Women
Prime Minister Modi’s government has launched several schemes aimed at empowering women across various sectors. Here’s a look at some key initiatives:
- Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): This flagship scheme tackles the declining Child Sex Ratio and promotes the education of girls.
- Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): This scheme provides financial assistance to pregnant women and mothers for improved prenatal and postnatal care.
- Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK): This initiative empowers rural women through community participation and access to government services.
- Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): This scheme provides loans without collateral specifically for micro and small enterprises, fostering financial independence and economic participation.
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: This central government scheme promotes the education and marriage of girls by offering a savings account with government contribution.
- Lakhpati Didi (Ministry of Rural Development): This program empowers rural women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by providing training and financial support to achieve a sustainable annual income of Rs. 1 lakh or more. It focuses on financial literacy, skill development, and entrepreneurial ventures.
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY): Launched in 2016, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) focuses on empowering women from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households by providing them with subsidized LPG connections.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other programs aimed at improving women’s health, education, safety, and economic opportunities.
Nirmala Sitharaman’s on Women Empowerment under PM Modi’s Leadership
Nirmala Sitharaman, the Union Finance Minister, voiced the Indian government’s steadfast commitment to empowering women, citing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership as pivotal in driving women’s progress nationwide. Highlighting PM Modi’s initiatives like the Ujjwala Yojana, which provides gas cylinders, and the construction of rural infrastructure including houses and toilets, Sitharaman underscored their transformative impact on women’s lives.
She also emphasized the significance of passing the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam in Parliament as a landmark achievement. Sitharaman noted the administration’s efforts to simplify access to loans for women, eliminating the need for collateral, a move that has significantly improved financial inclusion. Additionally, she highlighted initiatives like ‘Drone Didi’ and ‘Lakhpati Didi’ aimed at furthering women’s welfare. During her visit to Amnour, Saran district, Sitharaman interacted with women volunteers, reiterating the government’s unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment.
India Moving Ahead with Women-Led Development
India is witnessing a significant shift towards women-led development. Here are some key examples:
- Republic Day 2024 saw a historic display of women’s empowerment. For the first time, women officers led contingents from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard during the Republic Day parade. Women also played a prominent role in various tableaus, showcasing their contributions across different sectors.
- Leadership in Space Exploration: On Women’s Day 2024, Dr. Ritu Karidhal, Mission Director for Chandrayaan 3, emphasized the growing role of women in India’s space program. She highlighted women’s equal contributions to complex missions like Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, signifying a positive change where women are taking leadership roles in STEM fields.
- Women in Economy and Business: Nirmala Sitharaman, India’s Finance Minister, serves as a powerful example of women leading at the highest levels of government and shaping the nation’s economic policies. Additionally, surveys indicate a rising number of women entrepreneurs leading successful startups. This trend highlights women’s growing influence in the Indian economy.
These examples showcase the multifaceted contributions of women across various sectors in India. From leading military contingents to steering scientific missions and shaping economic policies, women are playing a pivotal role in India’s development. The year 2024 serves as a testament to this growing trend, and the future looks bright for women-led progress in India.
