Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 12: Union home minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the Modi government's emphasis on women-led development over the past 12 years has transformed the lives of millions of women and strengthened their role in nation-building.
Marking the completion of 12 years of the NDA government at the Centre, Shah highlighted a range of initiatives aimed at improving women's welfare, dignity, safety and economic empowerment. He said the government's approach has enabled women to emerge as key contributors across sectors, from entrepreneurship and governance to sports, science and defence.
In a message shared on social media, Shah pointed to flagship programmes such as the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign, the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the nationwide sanitation drive as major interventions that have improved the quality of life for women.
He noted that more than 10 crore LPG connections under the Ujjwala scheme and over 12 crore household toilets have helped enhance women's dignity, health and convenience across the country.
The Home Minister also highlighted the role of financial inclusion schemes in promoting women's economic independence. He said a significant proportion of beneficiaries under the Mudra loan programme have been women entrepreneurs, enabling many to start businesses without the need for collateral.
According to Shah, initiatives such as Lakhpati Didi, Crorepati Didi and women-led self-help groups have further strengthened financial self-reliance and encouraged greater participation of women in economic activities.
He also referred to the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, enacted in 2023, describing it as a landmark step that will ensure 33 per cent reservation for women in legislative bodies and expand their participation in the political process.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also underscored the achievements of women under the banner of women-led development. Using the hashtag #12YearsOfNariShakti, the Prime Minister said women have emerged as leaders across diverse fields, including education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, governance, housing, sanitation, sports and scientific research.
Calling women the foundation of India's growth story, Modi said mothers, sisters and daughters are contributing significantly to the nation's progress and enhancing the country's global standing through their talent, determination and achievements.
The remarks from both leaders formed part of the government's broader outreach highlighting its achievements since assuming office in 2014, with women’s empowerment being projected as one of the key pillars of its development agenda.