PM Modi on Saturday declared that the evolving role of women in India’s tech= and economic sectors reflects the country’s shift away from outdated barriers that once limited women’s participation in modern progress.
Speaking at the Mahila Shashaktikaran Mahasammelan (Women Empowerment Conclave), held to commemorate the 300th birth anniversary of revered Malwa ruler Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, PM Modi emphasised that the BJP-led government is committed to placing women at the forefront of innovation, policy, and leadership.
Indian Women Leading The Tech Frontier
PM Modi cited the agricultural sector as an example of this transformation, noting that drone technology is revolutionising farming and Indian women are leading the change.
He highlighted the NaMo Drone Didi Abhiyan, which has empowered rural women with technical training and economic opportunity.
“This initiative has boosted the income and confidence of thousands of women, giving them a new identity rooted in self-reliance,” PM Modi stated.
He added that women are excelling as scientists, doctors, engineers, and pilots across various fields.
“The number of girls pursuing science and mathematics is steadily growing, and their contributions are being felt in space exploration and beyond,” PM Modi said.
Chandrayaan-3: A Milestone For Women In Science
PM Modi praised the women behind India’s lunar mission, Chandrayaan-3, noting that over 100 women scientists and engineers played a crucial role in the success of the project.
He called this a shining example of India’s dedication to advancing female talent in cutting-edge scientific research.
Start-Up Success Stories Driven By Women
PM Modi also underscored the growing influence of women in India’s thriving start-up ecosystem.
Nearly 45 per cent of start-up directors in India are women, he said, calling it a ‘testament to their entrepreneurial spirit and leadership potential’.
He stressed that financial independence empowers women, boosting their confidence and increasing their participation in household decisions.
Economic Empowerment At The Forefront
PM Modi highlighted the government’s sustained efforts over the past 11 years to economically empower women.
He pointed out that prior to 2014, millions of women lacked access to banking services.
“Under the Jan Dhan Yojana, their bank accounts were opened, enabling them to receive direct financial support through government schemes,” PM Modi said.
He cited the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, under which more than 75 per cent of the beneficiaries are women.
“Ten crore women have joined self-help groups, showcasing their strength and unity,” PM Modi added.
Lakhpati Didi: Creating Financial Independence
Speaking about the Lakhpati Didi initiative, PM Modi reiterated the government’s ambition to make three crore women financially self-reliant.
“Already, more than 1.5 crore women have achieved this milestone,” he stated.
Healthcare Reforms That Support Women
PM Modi discussed how the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aarogya Yojana—part of the Ayushman Bharat initiative—has transformed maternal healthcare.
“Earlier, women often avoided treatment during pregnancy due to financial concerns. Today, they can access free medical care up to ₹5 lakh,” he said.
PM Modi also highlighted how improvements in basic infrastructure have significantly eased the burden on women and girls.
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He said the provision of tap water in homes has reduced household work, giving girls more time to focus on education.
He added that access to electricity, clean cooking fuel through LPG, and sanitation facilities have not only improved living standards but also reaffirmed the government’s respect for women’s dignity.
Policy Inspired By Ahilyabai Holkar’s Legacy
PM Modi credited the government’s woman-centric policies to the inspiration drawn from Devi Ahilyabai Holkar.
“Her visionary leadership guides our actions even today,” he said.
He noted that women are central to the government’s housing initiatives. “Four crore homes have been built, most of them registered in women’s names. For many, this is their first step into homeownership and financial agency,” PM Modi observed.
Agriculture, Craftsmanship, And Women’s Role
PM Modi also honoured Ahilyabai Holkar’s support for craftsmanship, particularly her efforts to promote the Maheshwari saree industry.
He encouraged a return to her model of agricultural diversification, urging farmers to reduce reliance on traditional crops like paddy and sugarcane.
He further praised her use of unused lands for tribal and nomadic agriculture, calling it a progressive practice still relevant today.
Women Drive India’s Progress: PM Modi
Concluding his speech, PM Modi saluted the strength of Indian women, reaffirming that their empowerment lies at the heart of India’s development.
“Women are central to every major government initiative. Their strength and success are not only shaping their futures, but also driving India’s prosperity,” PM Modi said.
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