President Droupadi Murmu marked International Women’s Day by inaugurating a National Conference on the theme ‘Nari Shakti Se Viksit Bharat’ in New Delhi today. Organized by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development, the conference celebrated the achievements of women while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
In her address, the President extended her greetings to citizens, emphasizing that this day is a moment to honor women’s accomplishments, acknowledge their rights, and pledge to build a more equitable society. Reflecting on the significance of this year’s celebration, she noted that the world is commemorating 50 years of International Women’s Day—a period that has witnessed extraordinary progress for women across all walks of life. She spoke personally about her own journey from a humble background in Odisha to becoming the President of India, a testament to the power of equal opportunities and social justice in shaping women’s futures. She expressed confidence that the country will continue to witness more inspiring stories of women breaking barriers and excelling in every field.
The President stressed that a developed India can only be realized if girls are given the freedom to grow in an environment free from fear and societal pressure. She called for a society where no girl or woman hesitates to step out alone, emphasizing that true safety and empowerment come not just from laws but from deep-seated respect for women. A nation where every daughter and sister feels secure and valued, she asserted, is a nation that will reach new heights of success.
She paid tribute to trailblazing women who played a crucial role in shaping independent India, including Sarojini Naidu, Rajkumari Amrit Kaur, Sucheta Kripalani, and Hansaben Mehta, all of whom contributed significantly as members of the Constituent Assembly. The President highlighted that Indian women have excelled in every sphere—be it science, politics, sports, or social service—bringing pride to the country with their intelligence, wisdom, and dedication. She affirmed that whenever women have been given the platform to showcase their potential, they have never failed to rise to the occasion.
Acknowledging India’s rapid economic progress, the President emphasized the need to increase women’s participation in the workforce. She pointed out that one of the reasons for low female workforce participation, not just in India but globally, is the societal perception that women will be unable to commit fully to their jobs due to family responsibilities. Challenging this notion, she asked whether childcare should be seen as only a woman’s duty, underscoring that raising children is a responsibility shared by society. She reminded the audience that mothers are often a child’s first teacher and play an invaluable role in shaping future generations.
She concluded by asserting that a Viksit Bharat (developed India) can only be built on the foundation of self-reliant, confident, and empowered women. This vision, she stressed, is not just for women to fulfill alone—it is a collective mission that requires the support of men and society as a whole. Urging women to move forward with confidence, hard work, and determination, she called on everyone to contribute to building a nation where every woman has the freedom and opportunity to realize her potential.
