Commission chairperson stresses women’s role in nation-building

National Commission for Women (NCW) chairperson Vijaya Kishore Rahatkar emphasised the role of women in nation-building, asserting that today’s women are making their mark ‘from home to space.’

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She said that empowered women are the backbone of a progressive and self-reliant country.

She was addressing an awareness programme organised by the Haryana State Commission for Women on the theme of “Mera Rashtra, Meri Zimmedari” (my nation, my responsibility) at Dr Mangal Sen auditorium on Tuesday.

She praised the efforts of the Haryana Women Commission in ensuring justice, empowerment and self-reliance for women. She called Haryana a model example of the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ movement. She also underlined significant legislative progress over the past decade, including laws, against sexual harassment, domestic violence, the Women’s Reservation Bill, and the law banning triple talaq.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several schemes have brought positive transformation in the lives of women,” she said. “While opportunities for women are expanding, families and society must collectively work to preserve core values and build a strong nation,” she said, exhorting parents to teach their sons to respect women.

Haryana Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan emphasised the need for citizens to be aware, hardworking and committed, along with the nation’s developmental efforts.

Stressing the importance of women empowerment, he cited examples of iconic Indian women such as Rani Laxmi Bai, Ahilyabai Holkar, Kalpana Chawla, President Droupadi Murmu, and Colonel Sofia and Colonel Vyomika, highlighting their role in shaping India’s legacy. He also credited PM Modi for launching the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ campaign from Haryana, which had significantly improved the gender ratio in the state.

He stressed that an environment that promoted women empowerment was crucial for building a developed nation. He welcomed the 33 per cent reservation for women.

Karnal MLA Jagmohan Anand supported “One nation, one election,” saying frequent elections burden governments financially and slow down the national development.

Mayor Renu Bala Gupta praised the Centre’s and Haryana Government’s tireless work for women’s welfare. Haryana Women Commission Chairperson Renu Bhatia said the commission works 24x7 to assist women, especially in cases of domestic violence and workplace harassment. She applauded grassroots women leaders—sarpanches, panches, ASHA and Anganwadi workers—for ensuring government policies reach every home.