President Droupadi Murmu on Monday said that true empowerment of women can only be achieved when they are able to make independent decisions, live with self-respect and have access to equal opportunities and security.
Addressing the event ‘Sashakt Nari, Samriddh Delhi’, organised by the Government of NCT Delhi in the national capital, the President highlighted the growing achievements of women across sectors while underlining the need to remove persistent barriers.
“Today, women are excelling in every field. As soldiers, they are protecting the nation’s borders. As scientists, they are conducting research in laboratories. In sports competitions, they are raising the Indian flag on international platforms,” she said, adding that women are reaching new heights in politics, social service, administration and business.
She also noted the rising number of girls among students receiving degrees and medals at convocations across the country, describing it as an inspiring trend. However, the President pointed out that women continue to face challenges such as violence, economic inequality, social stereotypes and neglect in healthcare.
“The goal of women’s empowerment can only be achieved by removing these obstacles. A woman will truly be empowered when she has the ability to make independent decisions, can live a life with self-respect, and has access to equal opportunities and security,” she said. An empowered woman, she added, can transform not only her own life but also shape the direction of society and future generations.
Highlighting government initiatives aimed at women’s upliftment, President Murmu cited schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, Lakhpati Didi Yojana and Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana. She said these programmes are contributing to improvements in the social, economic and political status of women by promoting education, health, financial inclusion and self-reliance.
At the same time, the President stressed that women’s empowerment is not solely the responsibility of the government. “It is the responsibility of every member and institution of society. Educating women, building their self-confidence, and providing them with encouragement and support is our duty,” she said, urging society to assure women that they can dream and fulfil their aspirations.
Emphasising Delhi’s role as the national capital, President Murmu said that the safety, education and self-reliance of women in the city would send a strong and positive message across the country. She called on Delhi to set an example of women-led development for the entire nation.
The President concluded by saying that for women to fully contribute to the vision of a prosperous Delhi and a developed India, both government and society must create an environment where they can make independent decisions without fear or pressure.
