The Chintan Research Foundation organized an event named Empowered Women, Developed India in New Delhi. The event brought together policymakers, diplomats, economists, and experts to discuss women’s crucial role in India’s development by 2047. It was emphasized that women’s active involvement across various spheres is essential for true national progress.
Key attendees included Deepti Mohil Chawla, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, former Indian High Commissioner Veena Sikri, and Shamika Ravi from the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council. They shared insights on empowering women and highlighted existing societal and structural barriers. Deepti Mohil Chawla stressed the close connection between women’s empowerment and India’s vision of development by 2047.
Veena Sikri emphasized the necessity of women’s full participation for sustainable development. She mentioned government initiatives like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” and the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana that have improved women’s welfare. However, she pointed out the importance of addressing deep-rooted social attitudes limiting women’s empowerment beyond legislative actions.
Shamika Ravi highlighted women’s significant economic contributions, including unrecognized work like unpaid domestic labor. She called for policies recognizing and supporting women’s economic roles through institutional and social measures. Recognizing and valuing women’s economic contributions, she noted, is crucial for achieving inclusive and sustainable development.
The event underscored the significance of empowering women as a fundamental aspect of India’s broader development strategy towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.
