Yogesh
Jammu, Mar 8: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday asserted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, women empowerment has transformed from a mere slogan into a new revolution.
Extending his greetings and felicitations to Nari Shakti on International Women’s Day, LG Sinha while addressing a ‘Sashakt Nari Samman’ event here, said, “Framers of the Constitution had ensured equal rights for women, and today, the government is steadfast in its commitment to their progress and empowerment.”
The event organized by Buddha Art & Painting, in collaboration with Padma Shri Padma Sachdev Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar was attended by senior officers from police and civil administration; heads of various educational institutions, women achievers, artists, artisans, teachers and students.
LG Sinha said, “Women empowerment is the priority of the nation. Jahan nariyon ki puja hoti hai, devata wahin prakashtay hain,” he remarked, quoting an ancient Sanskrit verse that underscores the revered status of women in the society.
Highlighting key achievements of the government, LG Sinha listed numerous welfare initiatives that have significantly improved the lives of women across the country: “As many as 14 crore toilets have been constructed in the past 10 years to ensure dignity and hygiene for women. Under the Ujjwala Yojana, 11 crore households have received LPG cylinders, reducing the burden of traditional cooking methods.”
Referring to Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana LG Sinha said that 70% of houses under PMAY are registered in the name of women, ensuring financial security. “Nearly 14 crore households have received tap water connections under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Out of 40 crore Mudra loans given to small businesses, 27 crore have been availed by women, fostering economic independence.”
The Lieutenant Governor said that the “Startup India” movement is being led by women, with 296 startups in Jammu & Kashmir alone founded by female entrepreneurs. “The law against Triple Talaq has ensured justice and security for Muslim women. Over 90,000 SHGs in J&K have empowered 8 lakh women by providing financial independence and skill development,” he said, adding, “Women in Jammu & Kashmir are excelling in various professions, including engineering, medicine, law, and education.”
In academics, LG Sinha, according to KNO, said, “Girls are consistently outperforming boys, winning 75% of gold medals in universities.”
He also highlighted the contributions of women artists, calling them the main architects of sustainable development. “Women artists and artisans are architects of sustainable development. To be an outstanding creator, one needs to be full of love, kindness and compassion and this is what makes woman artists unique.”
He reaffirmed that the government is committed to providing equal opportunities for women and ensuring their continued participation in nation-building. “In Jammu and Kashmir, we have made every attempt to empower our sisters and daughters. They are excelling in every field, and their achievements are shaping a bright future for the region,” he said.
Referring to impact of the women power, LG Sinha said, “Nari Shakti’s impact on shaping the future of humanity is immense. She has been endowed with a special gift from existence to nurture creativity and drive social change.”
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the remarkable achievements of women artists and artisans of J&K and expressed gratitude for their contribution to the Union Territory of Jammu Kashmir and nation-building.
He said, “The greater participation of women artists and artisans in the contemporary art and craft arena has enriched this sector and strengthened the fabric of our cultural ethos. Many artisans in J&K and the country have achieved new milestones and others are crafting their way to a brighter tomorrow”.
The Lieutenant Governor reiterated his commitment to socio-economic empowerment of women and providing them a conducive environment to realise their true potential. “A new era of Women-Led Development has begun in the UT of J&K. Today, our Nari Shakti are scripting their own success stories and have become the active partner in the development journey of Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He called upon the artists, artisans, NGOs, teachers, entrepreneurs and various stakeholders to work collectively for women empowerment and to ensure that the benefits of government schemes dedicated to Nari Shakti percolate to grassroots.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor felicitated the women achievers and students. He also visited the stalls put up by the women artists and artisans.
LG Sinha hailed the efforts of former minister Priya Sethi and Sanjogita Dogra, Founder, Buddha Art & Painting for organizing an “enlightening event” on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
