Women driving force behind progress of society: Sakeena Itoo

Jammu, Mar 7: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday remarked that women are playing a transformative role across all sectors and their contribution towards shaping our society is remarkable.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing grand International Women’s Day celebrations at Abhinav Theatre here today, organised by Mission Shakti in collaboration with J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages (JKAACL) under the theme ‘Give to Gain’.
Addressing a large gathering of women achievers, officers, students and social workers, the Minister highlighted that women today are playing a transformative role across all sectors including education, healthcare, administration, entrepreneurship, science, sports and social development and this day is observed to celebrate their achievements and recognitions in diverse fields.
“Women are not only backbone of their families but a driving force behind the progress of society. Their resilience, determination and leadership are shaping a stronger and more inclusive future for our country,” Minister Sakeena said.
The Minister reaffirmed that the government is committed to ensure equal opportunities, dignity and safety for women and girls, noting that several initiatives are being implemented by Government to empower women and make them self sustainable.
She underlined that education remains the most powerful tool for empowering women and enabling them to realise their full potential. She urged young girls to pursue their ambitions with confidence and encouraged families to support the aspirations of their daughters.
“An educated and empowered woman uplifts not only her family but also the entire community. When women progress, the nation progresses,” she stated.
Citing example of Union Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister Sakeena said that her achievement of leading one of the critical and important Ministry in central government is proof that women can lead in every field. She called upon the young girl students to make women like Nirmala Sitharaman as role model and demonstrate that determination and hard work can overcome any barrier.
Congratulating the participants and women on International Women’s Day, the Minister reiterated the government’s resolve towards strengthening policies and programmes that ensure empowerment, safety and socio-economic advancement of women.
In his welcome address, Mission Director, Mission Vatsalya/Mission Shakti, Nazim Zai Khan said that this special day is commemorated to celebrate the existence, achievements, and resilience of women and girls all across Jammu & Kashmir and entire Globe.
He added that this day is not only a celebration of how far women have come in society, politics, and economics, but also a reminder of the work that remains to achieve true equality. “The theme for this year’s Women’s Day Celebration, ‘Give to Gain’ encourages us to embrace generosity and action, giving respect, resources, justice and voice to empower women and girls”, he said.
He added that these interventions bring visible change at the community level and reaffirm Government’s collective commitment to building a Viksit Bharat @2047, where every girl and woman thrives in a discrimination-free environment.
He also spoke about various initiatives taken by the Social Welfare department for the empowerment and welfare of women and children in Jammu and Kashmir.
Secretary, JKAACL, Harvinder Kour while delivering vote of thanks, spoke about the importance of the day for the women folk.
Later, in recognition of meritorious public service, the Minister felicitated Commissioner Secretary, Forests Ecology and Environment, Sheetal Nanda.
On the occasion, students of Cluster University, Jammu presented a thought-provoking skit on the theme “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao”, which effectively conveyed the importance of girl child education and empowerment.
During the event, the Minister also felicitated women achievers from various fields like sports, para-sports, entrepreneurship, administration and meritorious public service, Art and Culture, child welfare and other areas for their outstanding contribution to society and exemplary achievements.
Earlier, Minister Sakeena inaugurated an exhibition showcasing various products of women entrepreneurs and women Self Help Groups. She also witnessed paintings displayed by the women artists reflecting their creativity and innovation.
Principal Secretary Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma; Commissioner Secretary, Forests Ecology and Environment, Sheetal Nanda; MD Women’s Development Corporation, Purnima Mittal; senior officers of social welfare department, women achievers, social workers and large number of students were also present on the occasion.