Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 10: Maharashtra deputy chief minister Sunetra Pawar on Tuesday delivered her maiden speech in the state assembly, announcing a new initiative aimed at easing work-life balance for women employees working with the state government in Mumbai.

Speaking in the House, Pawar said women government staff would be allowed to report to work earlier and leave earlier than the regular office hours under the proposed arrangement.

“If the office timing is from 9.30 am to 5.30 pm, then women employees can come at 9.00 am and leave at 5.00 pm,” she said, adding that the move would help women manage both family responsibilities and professional commitments more comfortably.

Pawar said the Maharashtra government has been implementing several schemes for women’s welfare and empowerment. She described the initiative as a small step towards making the lives of working women in Mumbai easier.

“In Mumbai, life is very fast and hectic. For women it becomes even more challenging as they have to take care of their families along with their official responsibilities. It becomes difficult to maintain this balance,” she said.

She added that the state government is committed to ensuring dignity, respect and welfare for women.

“This move will give big relief to our sisters and daughters who are working in Mumbai. We must empower women through various initiatives,” Pawar said, adding that leaders such as Jijau, the mother of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Savitribai Phule and Ahilyabai Holkar remain inspirations.

During her speech, Pawar also became emotional while recalling her late husband Ajit Pawar. Following his death, she had taken over the leadership of the party as its national president.

Acknowledging that she is new to state politics, Pawar said she has been observing and learning the functioning of the political system. She also appealed to both the state and central governments to take a positive approach towards issues concerning farmers and women.