Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah greeted women in the state on International Women’s Day, highlighting the government’s dedication to enhancing women’s empowerment through various welfare programs. He emphasized the importance of the day in raising awareness about women’s empowerment, equality, and achievements across different spheres. Siddaramaiah acknowledged the evolving role of women in society, noting their progress despite challenges like gender inequality and workplace harassment.
The Chief Minister reflected on historical movements promoting gender equality and the ongoing struggles against issues like domestic violence. He credited social reform movements and constitutional safeguards for advancing women’s rights in India. Siddaramaiah praised women’s achievements in education and professional fields, citing recent successes in civil service exams from Karnataka. He expressed hope that these accomplishments would inspire more women to pursue careers in services like the IAS and IPS.
Discussing state initiatives, Siddaramaiah highlighted schemes like Gruha Lakshmi and Shakti aimed at supporting women’s empowerment. He pointed out the positive impact of the Shakti scheme, which offers free bus travel for women, on their independence and participation in various sectors. The Chief Minister also mentioned programs like Gruha Jyothi and the introduction of paid menstrual leave in Karnataka as steps towards reducing financial burdens on women and promoting gender equality.
Siddaramaiah underscored the government’s commitment to women’s progress, citing the substantial budget allocation for women-centric programs in the state. He recognized women as a vital force in society, emphasizing their diverse roles and contributions. The Chief Minister concluded by extending his best wishes to all women in Karnataka on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
