The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu graced the Foundation Day Celebration of National Commission for Women in New Delhi today (January 31, 2023).

 Speaking on the occasion, the President said that it is not possible to imagine a strong and healthy society without women empowerment. Together we have to work towards creating an environment where all women can fully participate and contribute in the socio-economic, cultural and political spheres significantly. Women empowerment is not just an issue of social justice but it is also crucial for economic development. The low participation of women in the workforce is a major hindrance in the overall development of our country. India is the fifth largest economy in the world and now moving towards becoming a five trillion dollar economy. A more active role of women would be helpful in achieving this goal.

 Speaking about gender discrimination, the President said that even today the situation of gender-ratio in many parts of the country is worrying. Sad examples of female foeticide are also seen in well educated parts of the country. She emphasized that it is not only the responsibility of the government but of the whole society to change this situation. She said that while ensuring gender justice, we have to make our development equitable. Our development would be called development in true sense only when the status of women would be equal to that of men.

 The President said a question arises that why there was need to create a separate commission for women only. The answer is - we see that our sisters and daughters are flying in space, giving leadership in the armed forces while on the other hand they are becoming victims of domestic violence and facing discrimination and harassment at the workplace.

 The President noted that the mission of the National Commission for Women is to address the specific problems arising out of discrimination and atrocities against women and to strive for the empowerment of women. She said that the need to create a separate commission for half of the country's population shows that women are yet to get their due respect and rights. She stressed that only by improving the status of women, the country would be able to make overall progress.

 The President was happy to note that the National Commission for Women is committed to gender equality and empowerment through its continuous efforts. She urged all the women to move forward with determination by overcoming all kinds of obstacles. She also urged them to be aware of their rights and also make others aware.

 On the occasion, the President received the first copy of the book ‘Sashakt Nari, Sashakt Bharat’ – the National Commission for Women Journey book from Smt Smriti Zubin Irani, Union Minister for Women and Child Development. 

Please click here to see the President's Speech

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DS/BM