Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a massive gathering in Navsari, Gujarat, on International Women’s Day, expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support and blessings of the country’s women. Speaking with warmth and conviction, he reiterated his lifelong commitment to women’s empowerment, calling their love and strength his “greatest wealth” and a source of inspiration in his journey as a leader.
During the event, the Prime Minister launched two major initiatives—Gujarat Safal and Gujarat Maitri—aimed at further strengthening women’s financial independence and self-reliance. Additionally, financial aid under various government schemes was directly transferred into the bank accounts of women, a testament to the government’s continued push for economic empowerment at the grassroots level.
Reflecting on India’s journey towards women-led development, PM Modi highlighted the historic strides made in recent years. From ensuring dignity through sanitation programs to expanding financial inclusion and employment opportunities, the government has placed women at the heart of policymaking. He noted that programs like Ujjwala Yojana, the extension of maternity leave to 26 weeks, and the abolition of triple talaq have brought significant changes to the lives of women across different communities. He also pointed out that the abrogation of Article 370 has restored long-denied rights to women in Jammu and Kashmir, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to gender equality.
PM Modi spoke proudly of the increasing participation of women in governance, the judiciary, business, and science. He celebrated India’s standing as the country with the highest number of women pilots globally and praised the crucial role played by women scientists in the nation’s space missions. In Navsari itself, women had taken the lead in organizing the event, including managing security operations—a powerful symbol of their rising role in society.
Gujarat’s legacy of women-led development was a recurring theme in the speech. The Prime Minister credited the success of initiatives like Amul and Lijjat Papad to the entrepreneurial spirit of Gujarati women. He recalled policies introduced during his tenure as Chief Minister that laid the foundation for women’s empowerment, such as prioritizing property ownership for women and ensuring direct financial transfers into their bank accounts—a practice now adopted nationwide through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
PM Modi also emphasized the importance of water conservation, citing the remarkable efforts of Navsari’s women in rainwater harvesting and resource management. With thousands of water conservation structures built in the district, he applauded their dedication to environmental sustainability.
One of the most heartfelt moments came when he addressed the audience as a “son returning home.” Seeing the joy on the faces of mothers and sisters, he expressed gratitude for their love and support, which he credited for his continued leadership of the nation.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening women’s security. He detailed how the government has introduced stricter laws, fast-track courts, and legal reforms under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita to ensure swift justice for crimes against women. He cited recent cases where speedy trials had led to convictions within weeks, showcasing the effectiveness of the new system.
Looking toward the future, PM Modi spoke of the government’s ambitious goal of creating three crore “Lakhpati Didis”—women entrepreneurs who achieve financial success through self-help groups and business ventures. With initiatives like Drone Didi, Bank Sakhi, and Krishi Sakhi, he underscored the transformative role women are playing in India’s rural economy.
As the event concluded, PM Modi’s message was clear: India’s progress is intertwined with the empowerment of its women. Their determination, resilience, and leadership will drive the nation forward, fulfilling the dream of a developed India.
