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When it comes to matters concerning women, our government refrains from doing politics. This is a matter of unwavering commitment for the Prime Minister, and as such, we have taken resolute actions whether it’s regarding Article 370, Triple Talaq, or now the Women’s Reservation Bill
Nirmala Sitharaman
The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women’s Reservation Bill) is a pivotal instrument for achieving political empowerment. When it comes to matters concerning women, our government refrains from doing politics. This is a matter of unwavering commitment for the Prime Minister, and as such, we have taken resolute actions whether it’s regarding Article 370, Triple Talaq, or now the Women’s Reservation Bill. Women, when given the same access and opportunities, can excel in the political arena just as our women scientists have excelled at ISRO.
Over the past nine years, under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has pivoted towards a paradigm of ‘women-led development’. The outcomes of these empowerment initiatives are evident, ushering in a transformative change in the nation’s social fabric.
The Modi government’s efforts to empower women through initiatives such as Ujjwala Yojana, Swachhata Abhiyan, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, MUDRA Yojana, increasing maternity leave, and permanent commissioning of women in the Armed Forces are visible to all. Around 70 per cent of loans under the PM MUDRA Yojana have been sanctioned to women. These are loans up to Rs 1 million to support micro-level units and those self-employed. Similarly, 80 per cent of beneficiaries under Stand-Up India are women.
For the Modi government, ensuring a life of dignity for women stands as an unwavering commitment. This dedication is evident in the expanded adoption of
For the Modi government, ensuring a life of dignity for women stands as an unwavering commitment. This dedication is evident in the expanded adoption of LPG cylinders under the Ujjwala Yojana, safeguarding millions of women from chronic respiratory disorders by promoting smoke-free kitchens
LPG cylinders under the Ujjwala Yojana, safeguarding millions of women from chronic respiratory disorders by promoting smoke-free kitchens.
Furthermore, with the success of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, countless women now have access to toilets in their homes, easing concerns over their safety and preserving their dignity. Women got joint ownership of houses made under PM Awas Yojana (PMAY).
Over the past nine years under the Modi government, women have surged ahead with notable accomplishments. This progress is evident in the increased representation of female police personnel, accolades secured by our sportswomen on international platforms, and the rising enrolment of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Since 2014, female participation in technical education, especially in the Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), has doubled. Remarkably, nearly 43 per cent of STEM graduates in India are women. About a quarter of space scientists in India are women whose dedication and hard work have been instrumental in the nation’s flagship space missions, including Chandrayaan, Gaganyaan, and Mission Mars.
Today, more women are enrolling in higher education than men in India. We also have one of the highest numbers of women pilots in civil aviation. And female pilots in the Indian Air Force are now flying fighter aircraft. The Modi government has reserved posts for women in the CAPFs (Central Armed Police Forces) and allowed the admission of girls in the premier National Defence Academy (NDA) and Sainik Schools. Women fighters now stand to serve as “Amrit Rakshaks” in the “Amrit Kaal” as envisioned by PM Modi.
The right to vote and contest elections was granted to women in India since the beginning. About 1.4 million, that is 46 per cent of elected representatives in rural local bodies in India, are women. Indian women and their empowerment are playing a big role in pushing the country’s growth.
Our government recently convened a special session to inaugurate the new Parliament building — a symbol of a New India. We envisioned this Parliament embarking on its journey by addressing one of the most pivotal bills in its history.
This auspicious start aligns with a building designed to serve the nation for the coming century. PM Modi has aptly stated that success cannot be achieved if 50 per cent of the population, which comprises women, remains confined to their homes. As India propels itself to become a dominant global economic force, the role of women in contributing to the nation’s growth becomes increasingly indispensable with each passing day.
The Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam is historic legislation, which will further boost women’s empowerment and enable even greater participation of women in our political and governance processes. With the enactment of the legislation, India positions itself on the brink of a more radiant and inclusive tomorrow, with our Nari Shakti at the heart of this transformation. This transformative journey also signifies a paradigm shift in societal perceptions – where women are no longer merely beneficiaries but are active contributors and shapers of the nation’s destiny.
The path has been challenging, the battle prolonged, but finally, Nari Shakti has emerged triumphant. In this moment of success, it’s crucial to acknowledge former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao’s government for introducing 33 per cent
As a party, the BJP has consistently championed women’s reservation. We represent empowered women, and our party, along with our Prime Minister, has empowered us all. Rashrapati Droupadi Murmu stands as a shining example of an empowered woman, and every female MP of our party embodies empowerment
reservation in the Panchayati Raj system. This initiative has led to an upsurge in women’s participation, with many states even increasing the reservation to 50 per cent at the grassroots level.
This focus on women-led development is not a mere political strategy but a deeply embedded ethos. The government, under the leadership of PM Modi, has internalised the principle that a nation’s growth is inextricably linked to the growth of its women. This commitment is reflected in the myriad of policies and initiatives launched over the past nine years, and the results are profound.
As a party, the BJP has consistently championed women’s reservation. We represent empowered women, and our party, along with our Prime Minister, has empowered us all. Rashrapati Droupadi Murmu stands as a shining example of an empowered woman, and every female MP of our party embodies empowerment. Our elected women representatives will undoubtedly enhance the quality of parliamentary debates, influence law and policy making, and contribute positively to governance for the greater good of all Indians.
We must remember that empowering women means empowering a nation. When women thrive, societies prosper. As we stand at this significant juncture, it’s not just about celebrating the milestones achieved but also about looking forward to the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. India is setting an example on the global stage, showcasing that with commitment, vision, and action, gender barriers can be overcome, making way for a more inclusive, prosperous, and balanced future.
The essence of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam and similar initiatives signifies hope, progress, and a promise of a brighter future for all. It’s a clarion call for the entire nation to rally together and ensure that the winds of change, set in motion, continue for generations to come.
(The writer is the Union Finance Minister, GoI)