Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje stressed the significant efforts women must exert to establish themselves in politics. Speaking at the Jat Mahila Shakti Sangam event in Jaipur, she highlighted the persistent challenges faced by women in public life and advocated for increased female representation in politics. Raje acknowledged the progress made by women over the years but emphasized the necessity for further advancements towards achieving gender equality.
During the program, Jat Mahasabha President Raja Ram Meel commended Raje for her contributions to the Jat community, particularly in securing Jat reservations in Rajasthan. He credited her leadership for extending reservation benefits to Jats in Dholpur and Bharatpur, marking a significant milestone. Raje also presented statistical data illustrating the advancements of women in India since independence, noting a notable increase in female literacy rates and their representation in electoral politics.
Raje highlighted the evolution of women’s participation in Indian politics, citing a substantial rise in the number of female candidates contesting general elections. She pointed out the growth in women Members of Parliament, comparing the modest representation in the early years to the current numbers. Despite these improvements, Raje underscored the persistent disparity in women’s representation and advocated for gender parity in political spheres.
The former Chief Minister referenced the inspiring journeys of President Draupadi Murmu and former President Pratibha Patil, emphasizing the pivotal role of education in achieving success. She also recognized the contributions of notable women leaders such as Kamala Beniwal, Hema Malini, Sumitra Singh, Priyanka Chaudhary, Rita Chaudhary, and Shikha Meel. Various speakers, including Sushila Barala, Padma Shri awardee Krishna Poonia, Kamala Kanswa, and Divya Maderna, shared their perspectives on women’s empowerment and political engagement at the event.
