Nari Shakti as the Foundation of Viksit Bharat
Context:
As the world prepares to observe International Women's Day on March 8, the Government of India has reiterated its commitment to making Nari Shakti the cornerstone of its developmental agenda.
The global theme for 2026 is "Rights. Justice. Action For ALL Women and Girls," complemented by a global "Give to Gain" campaign that emphasizes collaboration and generosity to achieve gender equality.
Evolution of India's Approach:
India's national development strategy has fundamentally evolved from a welfare-oriented "development for women" model to a dynamic paradigm of "women-led development".
This progressive approach recognizes women not merely as passive beneficiaries, but as the primary drivers of economic and social progress, highlighting their central role in advancing the ambitious vision of Viksit Bharat@2047.’’
Constitutional Pillars of Gender Equality:
The principle of gender equality is deeply enshrined across the Indian Constitution's Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Fundamental Duties, and Directive Principles:
Universal Adult Franchise:
India granted equal voting rights to men and women right from the Republic's inception, firmly affirming women's equal voice in democracy.
Article 16 guarantees absolute equality of opportunity in public employment, explicitly prohibiting discrimination based on sex.
Article 39 directs the State policy towards securing equal livelihood opportunities and equal pay for both men and women.
Strengthening the Empowerment Ecosystem:
The government is strengthening the ecosystem for women's empowerment through multi-sectoral initiatives covering education, health, safety, and financial inclusion.
A massive push through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), tailored entrepreneurship schemes, and skilling programmes is expanding women's enterprise creation and financial independence.
Building on these foundations, schemes like the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)—launched under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign—encourage families to invest in secure financial pathways for a girl child's education and future aspirations.
An upcoming national celebration will bring together women achievers from governance, science, enterprise, and grassroots leadership to showcase these diverse successes.