Ruchira Kamboj, India’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized the nation’s commitment to women-led development, positioning India as a global advocate for gender equality and striving towards Viksit Bharat by 2047. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat, aiming for a fully developed India, underscores the imperative for women’s full and equal participation.
She spoke at a special event organized by the Mission of India on the sidelines of the Commission on the Status of Women on Tuesday. She highlighted that under PM Modi’s leadership, India’s G20 presidency had initiated a transformative focus on women-led development, signifying a significant shift. Kamboj expressed, “This is a testament to development and progress spearheaded by women in India.”
She elaborated, “Through the concept of Amrit Kal, where the power of women shines, India guided the G20 last year in championing global women’s advancement.”Kamboj reiterated that India’s G20 presidency facilitated six significant international conferences and 86 virtual meetings, serving as a beacon of hope for gender equality.
“India aims for Viksit Bharat by 2047, necessitating the full and equal participation of women. The government of India recognizes the immense power of women’s meaningful participation, shifting from women’s development, to women-led development,” she said.
She added, “We aspire for women to lead the path toward a developed nation as active contributors.”
Highlighting the significance of their contribution rather than passive receipt of development benefits, Kamboj stated, “A comprehensive strategy is being implemented to empower women, addressing their health, safety, education, employment, and entrepreneurship—the entire spectrum, so to speak.”
These initiatives aim to ensure gender justice, equality, and women’s full participation in shaping India’s socio-economic, political, and cultural landscape.
She noted that a robust network of 759 one-stop centers provides integrated support and assistance, benefiting over 8.3 lakh women.
Offering another example, Kamboj highlighted the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao program, which tackles the root causes to prevent female foeticide, resulting in an improved sex ratio at birth from 918 to 933 females per 1000 males.
