Dehradun: Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the Nari Shakti Vandan Conference held at Government Doon Medical College Auditorium, emphasizing the significance of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a transformative step toward women’s empowerment in India.
The event was organized by the Uttarakhand State Commission for Women ahead of the proposed special parliamentary session on April 16 to discuss the landmark legislation.
Nari Shakti Vandan Act: A Historic Step for Women
Addressing the gathering, CM Dhami said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, passed in 2023, marks a historic move toward ensuring respect, rights, and empowerment of women.
He highlighted that the Act provides 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, calling it a revolutionary reform that ensures women’s participation in policymaking.
Beyond Representation: Ensuring Real Participation
Dhami stressed that the legislation is not merely about increasing numbers but about strengthening women’s role in governance.
“This is a transformative step to ensure women actively participate in decision-making and leadership at the highest levels,” he said.
He added that empowering women is essential for nation-building, as their strength, courage, and dedication form the foundation of societal progress.
“Nari Shakti is Central to Nation’s Growth”
Drawing from traditional wisdom, the Chief Minister said that no progress is possible without the power of women.
He noted that today’s women are contributing across sectors—from agriculture and entrepreneurship to governance and national leadership—yet they have not always received the recognition they deserve.
“A new era has begun to ensure women receive their rightful respect and opportunities,” Dhami stated.
Government Schemes Driving Women Empowerment
The Chief Minister credited several flagship schemes launched since 2014 under PM Modi’s leadership for uplifting women across the country. These include:
- Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
- Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
- Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana
- Swachh Bharat Mission
He said these initiatives have significantly contributed to improving the socio-economic status of women.
Uttarakhand Government’s Focus on Women
Highlighting state-level efforts, Dhami said Uttarakhand is actively promoting women’s participation in education, employment, and entrepreneurship.
Key initiatives include:
- Uttarakhand State Rural Livelihood Mission to promote self-reliance among rural women
- Sashakt Bahna Utsav Yojana to provide opportunities and support
- Mukhyamantri Mahila Swayam Sahayata Samooh Sashaktikaran Yojana for strengthening self-help groups
He also mentioned efforts to develop products made by women’s groups into recognized brands under the Mukhyamantri Udyamshala Yojana.
Special Parliament Session on Women Reservation
The Chief Minister noted that a special session of Parliament starting April 16 will focus on the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He said the long-pending demand for women’s reservation is now closer to becoming a reality.
A New Era for Women Empowerment in India
Concluding his address, Dhami emphasized that empowering women is key to building a stronger and more inclusive India.
“Without the strength of women, true progress of society and the nation is impossible,” he said.
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