New Delhi: The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD), Government of India, hosted a 17-member delegation from the European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality (FEMM Committee) during its official mission to New Delhi from February 16 to 20, 2026. The delegation, led by Ms. Lina Gálvez, Chair of the FEMM Committee, discussed ways to strengthen cooperation on women and child empowerment and protection.
Strengthening India–EU Strategic Partnership
Welcoming the delegation, Smt. Savitri Thakur, Minister of State for Women and Child Development, highlighted India’s strategic partnership with the European Union and noted that gender equality is a core pillar of the Joint India–EU Strategic Agenda 2030. She emphasised that the meeting built on earlier high-level discussions and demonstrated a shared commitment to advancing women’s rights and inclusive development.
India’s Achievements in Women Empowerment
The Minister outlined India’s progress in promoting gender equality. Key initiatives include:
- Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam: Provides one-third reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies, with nearly 46% representation in local bodies.
- Education & STEM: Significant improvements in girls’ education and STEM participation, supported by scholarships and skill programs.
- Financial Inclusion: Nearly 70% of Mudra loans and over 31 crore Jan Dhan accounts benefit women.
- Safety Mechanisms: Enhanced protection through Mission Shakti, One Stop Centres, fast-track courts, and dedicated helplines.
These initiatives reflect India’s constitutional and policy commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment, aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Expanding Cooperation in Key Areas
During the discussions, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in promoting the welfare of women and children. Areas identified for enhanced cooperation include gender-responsive trade, digital inclusion, climate action, and people-to-people exchanges.
Smt. Thakur emphasised that India and the EU are natural partners in inclusive and sustainable development and expressed confidence that continued dialogue will foster innovative, mutually beneficial policies to empower women and children.
Conclusion: Shared Commitment to Empowerment
The meeting concluded with a joint reaffirmation of commitment to advancing gender equality, protecting women and children, and fostering collaborative efforts that enhance safety, empowerment, and equitable development. Both India and the European Union stressed the importance of sustained engagement and knowledge-sharing to achieve these objectives.
