India on Friday reaffirmed its commitment to advancing women-led development and strengthening regional cooperation on women’s empowerment during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Women’s Forum 2026 held in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic.
Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annapurna Devi addressed the forum through a video message, reiterating India’s commitment to the principles of the SCO, including mutual respect, equality and consensus, while underlining the country’s resolve to contribute to the organisation’s shared development goals.
Delivering India’s opening statement and participating in the panel discussion on the “Role of Women in Economic Development,” the minister stressed that women are not merely beneficiaries of economic progress but are among its most powerful drivers.
Highlighting Narendra Modi government’s vision of Women-Led Development, she said the approach remains central to India’s goal of becoming a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047, with women playing a pivotal role in driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth.
Showcasing India’s achievements in women’s empowerment, the minister said nearly 100 million women are currently organised into more than 9 million Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across the country. Of these, over 30 million women have emerged as ‘Lakhpati Didis’, reflecting the success of initiatives aimed at enhancing financial independence and entrepreneurship among rural women.
She also highlighted flagship government programmes such as Mission Shakti and Mission Poshan 2.0, describing them as key pillars in promoting women’s safety, nutritional well-being, care and greater participation in the economy.
Emphasising the importance of regional collaboration, India expressed its willingness to share its experiences and best practices with fellow SCO member countries in advancing women’s economic leadership and improving their overall well-being.
The minister said greater cooperation among SCO nations can help create more opportunities for women, strengthen inclusive development and contribute to sustainable growth across the region.
The SCO Women’s Forum serves as an important platform for member countries to exchange ideas, promote gender equality and enhance collaboration on policies aimed at empowering women socially and economically. India’s participation at this year’s forum reflects its continued focus on placing women at the centre of development and strengthening partnerships within the SCO framework.
