SPEECH OF HON'BLE GOVERNOR, PUNJAB AND ADMINISTRATOR, UT CHANDIGARH, SHRI BANWARILAL PUROHIT ON THE OCCASION OF CHIEF GUEST FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY INITIATIVE – WOMEN OF SUBSTANCE AWARDS AT CHANDIGARH ON MARCH 8, 2022

Good Evening,

I would, first of all, like to extend to you and through you, to all the women of Chandigarh and Punjab, my warm greetings and hearty felicitations on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

I congratulate all the ladies who have are bestowed with "Women of substance" Award. Behind each success I can comprehend that there is a story of tremendous commitment & perseverance.

I would also like to take this opportunity to convey my heartfelt appreciation of the countless women who are the silent backbone of our economy. They toil shoulder to shoulder with our men in the agriculture sector for our food security, in factories for our nation’s economic growth, they work on project sites to build our national infrastructure and they strive in corporate offices and in banks. As professionals, they are second to none in their achievements and their services as doctors and nurses, as space and nuclear scientists and in Government offices and politics are invaluable in forging a path of progress and growth for our people.

Therefore, it is only appropriate that we should remind ourselves that the empowerment of women and their equality, liberty and dignity are not a distant goal or fond aspiration of the women of our country. It is one of their sacred rights. It is not a privilege that they should seek. It has been a key element in the codes of conduct that our ancient societies prescribed for themselves more than 3000 years ago. In the Vedic civilization, women were always given the highest level of respect and freedom and at the same time, their protection and safety was a sacred duty of society. This is our culture, this is our heritage. We should not allow ourselves to forget this.

When the founding fathers of independent India drafted our constitution, they ensured that its principles and provisions duly emphasised women’s rights and equality. Our Central and State Governments have been duly prioritizing women’s development. Many States including Punjab have championed the cause of 33% reservation for women in Government Jobs to empower them and create an atmosphere of gender-neutral equality.

There are, nevertheless, enduring societal perceptions and attitudes which inhibit the pace of improvement in the condition and position of Indian women in our society and economy. These call for urgent individual as well as collective introspection.

Today the resolution of a New India is before us in the Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav of Independence. Today the country is working on the mantra of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas'. The country will realize this goal of development for all only when all possibilities are equally open to all.

Friends,

The participation of women is increasing continuously in the growth cycle of New India.

Since 2015, approximately 185 women have been given the Padma award for their phenomenal work. This year also, 34 Padma awards have been given to women working in different fields. This is a record in itself. To date, never ever so many women have received the Padma award.

Similarly, India's daughters are doing wonders in the world of sports, winning medals for the country in the Olympics. Our nurses, doctors and women scientists have played a huge role in the country’s biggest fight against the corona pandemic.

There was a time when women’s empowerment was seen through a narrow prism in the country. The women from villages and poor families were outside this scope.

But, today the confidence of the women of the country has increased. They are determining their own future as well as giving direction to the future of the country.

After several years, the sex ratio has improved in the country, the drop-out rate of girls from schools has decreased.

Undoubtedly women are making their presence felt on the earth as well as on the space.

From their families and homes to farms and fields and in their businesses and professions, women are second to none in applying themselves with a commitment that comes from the Heart and Soul.

I appreciate the Touch Clinic and 'I am Still Human' NGO for organising this event. Hope this recognition will bring new enthusiasm, hope and self esteem in the winners and through them in other women.

All the best for all your future ventures!

Thank you,

Jai Hind.