Nari Shakti Vandan Act marks a historic step towards women’s empowerment in India
Chief Minister attends Nari Shakti Vandan Maha Sammelan
Raipur, April 15, 2026/
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the Nari Shakti Vandan Maha Sammelan held at Deendayal Upadhyay Auditorium in Raipur on Wednesday. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment, he described passing of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, 2023 a historic step that will ensure “greater participation of women in decision-making processes” across the country.
Extending his greetings to women, Chief Minister stated that in India’s Sanatan tradition, women hold the highest position. “We worship the divine feminine,” he remarked, highlighting that Goddess Lakshmi represents prosperity, Saraswati symbolises knowledge, and Durga embodies strength. He added that although efforts for women’s reservation were made earlier, the decisive implementation became possible only under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, reflecting “firm will and visionary governance.”
Chief Minister also cited key initiatives such as Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao, Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, and Mahtari Vandan Yojana, stating that these schemes have paved the way for “inclusive and sustainable empowerment of women.” He informed that the state is celebrating this year as ‘Mahtari Gaurav Varsh’, under which nearly 70 lakh women are receiving Rs. 1,000 per month through the Mahtari Vandan Yojana. This financial support is enabling women to progress in education, healthcare, and livelihood sectors, fostering “economic independence at the grassroots level.”
Shri Sai further stated that Naxalism in the Bastar region has been effectively curbed, and the state is now moving steadily on a path of development. Describing the Nari Shakti Vandan Act as one of the most important decisions of the 21st century, he said it will provide “new strength to women’s participation and leadership in governance.” During the event, the resolve of “women’s role in decision-making from Panchayat to Parliament—preparing a new India” was reiterated.
He noted that over 14 lakh women are already actively contributing in Panchayati Raj institutions, reflecting their growing confidence and leadership capacity. On the occasion, the Chief Minister felicitated women with flowers and extended his congratulations and best wishes.
Speaking at the event, Women and Child Development Minister Smt. Laxmi Rajwade emphasised that women’s determination and strong willpower are enabling them to take significant decisions. She said that when given responsibility, women can transform the nation’s future, reinforcing the idea of “equal participation in nation-building.”
Former Rajya Sabha MP Smt. Saroj Pandey stated that the Act will be implemented by 2029, under which women will receive 33 percent reservation in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, ensuring “fair representation in legislative institutions.”
The programme was attended by MP Smt. Roopkumari Chaudhary, MP Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, Padma Shri awardee Sushri Usha Barle, MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, Chairperson of the Child Protection Commission Smt. Varnika Sharma, renowned hockey player Sushri Neeta Dongre, and several other public representatives and distinguished citizens.