Chandigarh: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann today honored women entrepreneurs in Mohali, emphasizing the crucial role women play in Punjab’s administration, economy, and society. Addressing the gathering, CM Mann stressed that real empowerment comes through education, representation, and economic opportunities.
Key Initiatives Announced for Women Empowerment
During the ceremony, CM Mann highlighted several government initiatives aimed at empowering women:
- 33% reservation for women in government jobs
- ‘Maanwan-Dhiyan Satkaar Yojana’ providing monthly financial assistance: ₹1,000 for general category women and ₹1,500 for SC women
- ‘Meri Rasoi’ scheme offering ration kits to 40 lakh families, including sugar, pulses, oil, turmeric, and salt
He called upon women to take leadership roles and participate in decision-making processes to shape the future of Punjab.
Women in Politics and Leadership
CM Mann encouraged women to enter politics, saying that their participation is essential for a democratic and equitable society. He pointed out that while women have excelled in various fields, political representation remains limited. The Chief Minister also noted that the AAP government has appointed more women than any previous administration to key positions such as Deputy Commissioner and SSP, marking a significant shift in gender equality in governance.
Education as a Tool for Empowerment
Highlighting the role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and social discrimination, CM Mann said:
“No free facility or subsidy can end social evils; education is the key to improving life standards. Girls must equip themselves with new skills, stay updated, and strive for excellence in every field.”
He emphasized that the government has undertaken extensive educational reforms to ensure quality education for girls across Punjab, especially in marginalized communities.
Recognition of Women Entrepreneurs
Under the Punjab State Rural Livelihood Mission (PSRLM), the government honored 100 top-performing women entrepreneurs from 23 districts, awarding each with ₹25,000, a certificate, and a memento. Previously, 11,700 women across 117 assembly constituencies were recognized.
The Chief Minister highlighted the government’s efforts in promoting entrepreneurship, mentioning:
- Over 2,000 startups launched under the Pahal Startup Project, generating 7,560 jobs
- Sakhi Shakti fairs held in 19 districts, providing women entrepreneurs income exceeding ₹1 crore
- Dairy cooperative societies being developed, engaging 7,000 women and targeting 85,000 liters of milk supply daily
- Establishment of 1,000 cooperative societies statewide
Structural Support for Women
CM Mann outlined other structural empowerment measures, including:
- Financial assistance of ₹147 crore to strengthen 58,303 women-led self-help groups
- 50% reservation for women in local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions
- Nutritional support for 1.86 lakh girls through 27,314 Anganwadi centers
- Cashless medical treatment up to ₹10 lakh under Chief Minister Sehat Scheme
- Free electricity to 90% of households
He stated that initiatives such as free travel for school and college-going girls are designed to ensure women become self-reliant and empowered to participate actively in society.
Global and Cultural Inspiration
CM Mann urged Punjabi women to draw inspiration from global examples, like Chinese women driving industrial production, and from historical Punjabi women such as Mata Gujri Ji and Mai Bhago. He stressed that Punjab’s women should aim high in every field, breaking traditional barriers and contributing significantly to the state’s growth.
Support from AAP Leadership
The event also saw remarks from AAP Punjab in-charge Manish Sisodia, who highlighted that for the first time, women from general families, not just affluent households, are being recognized. Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Tarunpreet Singh Saund and other dignitaries were also present.
CM Mann concluded by saying that women are no longer a weaker section of society but are excelling in every field, and the government remains committed to providing continuous support and creating opportunities for empowerment and leadership.
