New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday addressed the ongoing three-day G20 Ministerial Conference on Women Empowerment in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, via a video message. PM Modi emphasised that the advancement of women directly correlates with the progress of the world. He underscored that the economic empowerment of women propels growth, while their access to education serves as a driving force behind global advancement.
“When women prosper, the world prospers. Their economic empowerment fuels growth. Their access to education drives global progress. Their leadership fosters inclusivity. And, their voices inspire positive change. The most effective way to empower women is through a women –led development approach,” the PM said, adding that the country was making new strides in this direction.
He said President Droupadi Murmu, herself, sets an inspiring example in this regard.
“Our President, Shrimati Droupadi Murmu, sets an inspiring example herself. She comes from a humble tribal background but now leads the world’s largest democracy, serving as the Commander-in-Chief of the world’s second-largest defence force,” PM Modi said.
He also underscored the inclusivity enshrined in the Indian constitution, which ensures equal rights for all citizens, including women, to vote and contest elections.
“Elected women representatives have been key agents of economic, environmental, and social change. At 1.4 million, 46 percent of elected representatives in rural local bodies in India are women.”
PM Modi further lauded the formidable impact of Self-Help Groups formed by an increasing number of women, hailing them as a potent force driving change. He highlighted their role in manufacturing masks, sanitizers, and disseminating crucial information about infection prevention during the pandemic.
Expanding on his government’s initiatives, PM Modi shared how access to capital for women entrepreneurs was being ensured, along with the provision of clean cooking fuel.
The Ministerial Conference on Women’s Empowerment under the G20 Indian Presidency, Chaired by Union Minister of Women and Child Development, Smriti Irani, started in Gandhinagar on Wednesday and will end on Friday. The G20 Ministerial Conference, while focusing on women-led development, will be an opportunity for accelerating achievement towards Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment and achieving ‘SDG:Goal 5.’
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