President Droupadi Murmu emphasized the Narendra Modi government’s dedication to women’s empowerment, highlighting various welfare initiatives. Addressing a joint session of Parliament, she stated, “My government, committed to women-led development, has ushered in a new era of women empowerment.”
President Murmu acknowledged the long-standing demand for greater female representation in the Lok Sabha and Vidhan Sabha, noting that the enactment of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam has empowered women significantly. Over the past decade, numerous government schemes have bolstered women’s economic empowerment.
She highlighted that a significant portion of the four crore houses built under the PM Awas Yojana in the last ten years were allotted to women. Furthermore, the government has approved the construction of three crore new houses, with the majority designated for women beneficiaries.
The President also pointed out that ten crore women have been organized into Self Help Groups (SHGs) over the past decade. The government has launched a comprehensive campaign to turn three crore women into ‘Lakhpati Didis’ by increasing financial support to SHGs.
President Murmu emphasized the government’s commitment to improving women’s skills, income sources, and respect. The NAMO Drone Didi Scheme is a significant part of this effort, providing drones and training thousands of SHG women as drone pilots.
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She also mentioned the Krishi Sakhi Initiative, under which 30,000 SHG women have received Krishi Sakhi Certificates. These women are trained in modern agricultural practices to aid in agricultural modernization.
Additionally, President Murmu highlighted the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, which offers higher interest rates on deposits for girls, and noted the benefits women receive from free ration and affordable gas cylinder schemes.
Lastly, she mentioned the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which aims to reduce electricity bills to zero and generate income from selling power. Over one crore families have already registered under this scheme in a short period.