Thaindian News

New Delhi, Mar 15 (ANI): President Pratibha Devisingh Patil on Tuesday said the dreams of a nation marching forward with equal contribution from both men and women cannot become a reality, till every woman in India, is touched by the refreshing winds of empowerment.

Speaking at the National Meet of Women, titled ‘Celebrating the joy of empowerment’, organized by the IAS Officers’ Wives Welfare Association and Sudinalay, in association with their knowledge partners, here, President Patil said: “Empowerment of women will require a multi-pronged approach. The dreams of a nation marching forward with equal contribution from both men and women cannot become a reality, till every woman in India, is touched by the refreshing winds of empowerment, which can give her the joy of being in charge of her destiny.”

“All of us can be a part of this journey, by making determined, meaningful and constructive efforts that would change the life of at least one woman in need, by lending her a hand to stand-up proudly on her feet,” she added.

President Patil said the empowerment of women has many hues and many aspects, translating into a single aspiration of creating conditions in society, where women are equal partners in the family unit, in society and the country.

“They should be in a position to take independent decisions on the various issues impacting their individual lives and the environment they live in. The joy of empowerment is the availing of opportunities that exist to realize one’s full potential. If indeed, women are to find their rightful voice, it would only be possible if they are properly educated, and given training in skill building, which would equip them to avail of income generating opportunities,” said President Patil.

“This would also greatly enhance their self-esteem and confidence. While education and capacity building are undoubtedly the keys for empowerment of women, equally important is ensuring that their health needs are addressed. Access to and affordability of healthcare, especially for women and children, are tasks that must be accomplished,” she added.

Asserting that gender equality is an important objective on the nation’s agenda, President Patil said: “We are fortunate to have had many women who have played inspiring roles in the history of our country. Indian women were enthusiastic participants in our freedom movement.”

“After independence, when our Constitution was enacted, our founding fathers incorporated articles that provided for equality, and gave equal opportunities to both men and women, including the right to vote. Since those early days of independence, other measures have been taken to strengthen the position of women,” she added.

Calling for a fundamental change in mindsets, not only amongst men, but also amongst women and others in society, President Patil said: “Legislative and administrative initiatives to empower our women are necessary and important, but not enough. We need a new social movement for gender equality - a movement that changes society’s attitude towards women.”

“Even as women fight for their empowerment, they should be aware that the fight is not about women versus men. It is about changing social attitudes and understanding that women and men have a complementary and supplementary role to play in building their future together,” she added. (ANI)