On August 15, 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the nation in marking the 78th Independence Day from the historic Red Fort in New Delhi. In a stirring address, PM Modi highlighted the remarkable strides made by women across various sectors, underscoring their role as the vanguards of progress and empowerment in India.
Addressing the nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort, PM Modi emphasized that women have emerged as leaders and innovators, breaking barriers from the Air Force to other fields of excellence. His words were a testament to the growing recognition of the strength and spirit embodied by “Nari Shakti” (women’s power). “Their achievements reflect unparalleled excellence and are a cornerstone of our nation’s advancement. As we look to the future, we must continue to support and celebrate their contributions,” PM Modi said.
In a move aimed at further supporting working women, the Prime Minister announced a significant enhancement in maternity leave, increasing it from 12 weeks to 26 weeks. This decision underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that women are supported in their dual roles as professionals and caregivers. “Our goal is to ensure that the government is an enabler, not a hindrance, in a mother’s ability to nurture her child into a valued citizen,” Modi stated.
Over the past decade, the government has made strides in fostering financial independence among women. PM Modi revealed that 10 crore women have joined self-help groups, leading to substantial socio-economic change. These groups have received 9 lakh crores in funding, empowering women to become active decision-makers in their households and communities. “When women achieve financial independence, they drive social change and play a critical role in the development of our nation,” he added.
The Independence Day celebrations also featured a special acknowledgment of women’s contributions through the presence of 161 beneficiaries from the Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD). These special guests, including Anganwadi workers, staff from One-Stop Centres, and representatives from Sankalp hubs and District Child Protection Units, were honored at the Red Fort. Their visit to New Delhi included tours of Parliament and the Pradhan Mantri Sanghralaya, as well as a high tea at Vigyan Bhawan with Minister of State Savitri Thakur and senior MWCD officials.
Annapurna Devi, Minister for Women and Child Development, also spoke on this occasion, celebrating not only the nation’s independence but also the pivotal role of women in driving progress. “Their unwavering dedication and resilience are the essence of Nari Shakti. As we pursue a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India), we must continue to uplift and empower women, recognizing their central role in shaping our future,” she stated.
The celebrations from August 13 to 16, 2024, were a tribute to those who have tirelessly contributed to the nation’s growth, reflecting the collective achievements and aspirations for a future filled with hope and prosperity. The 78th Independence Day was a powerful reminder of the strides made in women’s empowerment and the ongoing journey towards a more inclusive and equitable society.
