Equal Participation of Women Key to True Development: Prez

March 9, 2026

President Droupadi Murmu has emphasised that equal participation of women in all spheres of life is essential for achieving true and inclusive development in India. Speaking at a national event organised to mark International Women’s Day, the President highlighted the growing role of women across sectors and called for stronger efforts to remove barriers that still limit their progress.

Murmu noted that women constitute nearly half of India’s population, and meaningful development cannot be achieved without their active participation in economic, social and political life. She said the country is gradually moving towards a model of women-led development, supported by policy initiatives and increasing opportunities for women in education and employment.

Women’s Role Expanding Across Sectors

The President highlighted that women are now contributing significantly to diverse fields including education, administration, the judiciary, defence, medicine, science, technology and entrepreneurship. Their achievements, she said, demonstrate their capability to lead and contribute to national growth.

According to Murmu, recent years have seen encouraging progress in women’s participation in higher education and professional sectors. In fact, the number of female students in higher education has now surpassed male students in terms of gross enrolment ratio in several fields.

She also pointed out that women are increasingly becoming innovators and entrepreneurs. Several government initiatives have helped women gain access to financial resources, training and digital platforms, enabling them to build successful enterprises and generate employment.

Focus on Education and STEM Opportunities

Education remains a key driver of women’s empowerment and participation in national development. President Murmu said the number of women pursuing education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is steadily increasing.

To encourage more women in technical fields, the government has announced plans to establish women’s hostels in every district, helping female students continue their studies without logistical barriers. Such measures aim to strengthen women’s presence in the knowledge economy and prepare them for leadership roles in emerging industries.

Murmu stressed that empowering girls through education and skill development will play a vital role in shaping India’s future workforce.

Women Emerging as Job Creators

The President also highlighted the growing presence of women in entrepreneurship and business. Several start-ups supported under government initiatives have at least one female director, reflecting the increasing participation of women in the startup ecosystem.

In addition, more than two lakh women-owned micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are currently active on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM), which enables them to sell products directly to government buyers.

She also mentioned initiatives such as SHE-Mart, aimed at improving market access for products made by self-help groups and rural women. These programmes are designed to strengthen women’s economic independence and boost local entrepreneurship.

Challenges to Gender Equality Remain

Despite progress, the President acknowledged that several challenges still hinder women’s empowerment. Issues such as gender discrimination, unequal pay for equal work and domestic violence continue to affect women across society.

Murmu stressed that legislation alone cannot solve these problems. She called for a shift in societal attitudes to ensure equal respect and opportunities for women. According to her, only when society moves beyond gender bias can true equality be achieved.

Call for Collective Efforts

The President urged citizens, institutions and policymakers to work together to create an inclusive society where women can realise their full potential. Encouraging greater participation of women in decision-making roles will not only strengthen democracy but also accelerate economic and social progress.

She concluded that India’s journey towards a developed nation will be successful only when women and men contribute equally to shaping the country’s future.