New Delhi, Mar 3: Droupadi Murmu on Monday said that genuine women’s empowerment cannot be achieved without eliminating violence, economic inequality, social stereotypes and health-related challenges that continue to affect women across the country.Addressing the ‘Sashakt Nari, Samriddh Delhi’ programme organised by the Government of NCT Delhi in the national capital, the President acknowledged the strides women have made in recent years but stressed that significant barriers remain.“Removing Obstacles Is Essential”“It is a fact that women still face violence, economic inequality, social stereotypes and health-related issues,” President Murmu said.
“The goal of women’s empowerment can only be achieved by removing these obstacles.”She added that true empowerment means enabling women to take independent decisions, live with dignity and self-respect, and have access to equal opportunities and security.The President noted that several legal and policy reforms have been introduced over the years to safeguard women’s rights — including measures addressing domestic violence, equal pay and property rights — but underlined that societal attitudes must also change.From Empowerment to Women-Led Development President Murmu expressed satisfaction that India’s development approach has evolved beyond empowerment toward what she described as “women-led development.” She said this shift reflects growing recognition of women not only as beneficiaries of policy but as active drivers of progress.Highlighting the expanding role of women in national life, she said they are excelling in diverse fields — from serving as soldiers protecting the country’s borders to conducting scientific research and winning medals in international sports competitions.
She also pointed to their increasing participation in politics, administration, business and social service.The President said the rising number of girls earning degrees and academic honours at universities across the country offers an encouraging sign for the future.Support for Self-RelianceMurmu also referred to several government initiatives aimed at promoting women’s financial independence and well-being. She said the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana has enabled many women to access credit for self-employment ventures.
Similarly, she noted that the Lakhpati Didi Yojana is helping women increase their incomes and become financially self-reliant, while the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana is contributing to improvements in maternal health.Call for Collective ResponsibilityConcluding her address, the President called for a collective effort from government institutions, civil society and citizens to ensure a safe and supportive environment for women.She emphasised that empowerment is not merely a policy objective but a social commitment — one that requires sustained action to create a society where every woman can live with dignity, security and equal opportunity.
