New Delhi, March 2, 2026: President Droupadi Murmu on Monday underscored that true women empowerment is achieved only when women can take independent decisions, live with dignity, and access equal opportunities and security. She was addressing the ‘Sashakt Nari, Samriddh Delhi’ event organised by the Government of NCT of Delhi in the national capital.
Barriers That Must Be Removed
While acknowledging these achievements, President Murmu said serious challenges still persist. Women continue to face violence, economic inequality, social stereotypes and neglect in matters of health and nutrition.
She stressed that the goal of women empowerment cannot be fulfilled unless these structural and social obstacles are removed. “A woman will truly be empowered when she has the ability to make independent decisions, live with self-respect, and access equal opportunities and security,” she said.
The President emphasised that empowered women become catalysts of change. When women gain confidence and autonomy, they influence not only their own lives but also the trajectory of families, communities and future generations.
Government Schemes Strengthening Women
Highlighting the Centre’s efforts, President Murmu referred to several flagship schemes aimed at uplifting women socially and economically. She pointed to the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Yojana, which promotes the education and safety of the girl child.
The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, she said, has protected the health of millions of women by providing clean cooking fuel and reducing exposure to harmful smoke. Through the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, women entrepreneurs are gaining access to institutional credit for self-employment.
Initiatives such as the Lakhpati Didi programme are creating pathways for rural women to achieve financial independence. The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is contributing significantly to maternal health and well-being.
Collectively, these initiatives are improving the social, economic and political status of women.
Empowerment Is a Shared Responsibility
President Murmu made it clear that women empowerment is not the sole responsibility of the government. Society, institutions and families must actively contribute to this mission.
She urged citizens to prioritise women’s education, strengthen their self-confidence and provide continuous encouragement. Creating a supportive ecosystem where women can dream freely and pursue their aspirations without fear is essential for lasting change.
According to the President, meaningful empowerment requires an environment in which women can make life choices without pressure, discrimination or insecurity.
Delhi Must Lead by Example
Calling Delhi a microcosm of India, President Murmu said people from every state and region reside in the capital. If women in Delhi are safe, educated and self-reliant, and assume leadership roles confidently, it will send a powerful message nationwide.
She urged the capital to set an example of women-led development for the entire country. A prosperous Delhi, she observed, must be built on the active participation and leadership of women.
For women to fully contribute to the vision of a “Samriddh Delhi” and a developed India, both government and society must ensure a secure and enabling environment. The President concluded by reiterating that empowerment is not merely a policy objective but a moral commitment to ensure dignity, opportunity and security for every woman.
