Once again, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the pivotal role of women in the country’s development. Delivering his 10th consecutive Independence Day speech from the Red Fort’s ramparts, he highlighted the progress achieved due to the strength of mothers, sisters, and daughters. He shared his dream of creating 2 crore lakhpati didis (women entrepreneurs) in villages, illustrating his belief in women’s empowerment.
Last year, on India’s 76th Independence Day, Modi emphasized “Nari Shakti” (women’s power) in nation building. Today’s emphasis gains significance in light of the Manipur violence.
Modi acknowledged India’s high number of women pilots and their leading role in the Chandrayaan mission. The Economic Survey reported an increase in the Rural Female Labour Force Participation Rate (FLFPR), showing the growing involvement of women. Modi detailed plans to empower women in the agri-tech sector by providing drones to self-help groups and training women to use them.
Rural women have embraced additional jobs to enhance income levels, supported by technology and accessible credit. Self-help groups, NGOs, multilateral agencies, and the expansion of zero interest bank accounts under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) have transformed rural women. A State Bank of India report revealed a rise in women’s deposits due to government initiatives, with women’s share in total deposits increasing to 20.5% in 2022-23.
More than 55% of PMJDY beneficiaries are women, reflecting India’s commitment to women’s empowerment.
