President Says Educated, Empowered Women Crucial for Nation’s Development

Droupadi Murmu on Sunday said that the progress of any nation depends largely on the empowerment of women, stressing that educated, self-reliant and confident women form the backbone of a strong society.

Addressing the concluding session of the two-day national conference of women thinkers titled “Bharti – Naari Se Narayani” at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, the President highlighted the vital role women play in shaping the future of the country. The conference was held on March 7 and 8 and brought together women scholars, leaders and social thinkers from different parts of India.

President Murmu noted that in Indian tradition women have always been regarded as embodiments of knowledge, strength and prosperity, and their role extends far beyond the family. She said that today women are excelling in several sectors including education, science, administration, sports, entrepreneurship and social service, contributing significantly to nation building.

She stressed that genuine social progress can only be achieved when women receive equal opportunities, respect and security. According to the President, women should have the freedom to make their own decisions and equal access to education and employment so that they can live with dignity and self-respect.

Highlighting the growing concept of women-led development in India, Murmu encouraged young girls to move ahead with confidence, fulfil their aspirations and actively participate in the country’s development journey.

At the closing session, V. Shanta Kumari, chief of the Rashtra Sevika Samiti, said that women should accept encouragement from society and use it to strengthen their abilities. She added that staying connected to Indian cultural values can help women inspire society and emerge as role models.

Shivani V., secretary of the Bhartiya Vidvat Parishad, said the conference aimed to strengthen women’s journey from silent strength to decisive leadership. Nearly 1,500 women thinkers participated in the event, where discussions focused on empowerment, leadership, education and self-reliance with an emphasis on women-led nation building.