Inspiring Vision: Amit Shah Says Empowered Women Are Pillars of Aatmanirbhar Bharat

Empowered Women Key to India’s Self-Reliance, Says Home Minister

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Saturday emphasized that empowered women are not just contributors but essential pillars of the government’s mission to build an Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). Addressing a public event, Shah underscored the transformational role women play in shaping India’s economic and social future.

He stated that the vision of a self-reliant India can only be fulfilled when women across the nation are provided with equal opportunities, access to education, skill development, and meaningful participation in all sectors—ranging from rural entrepreneurship to technology.

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Empowered Women Are Driving Change Across India

The Union Minister highlighted the government’s achievements in empowering women over the last decade. Citing examples of initiatives such as the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao scheme, the Ujjwala Yojana, and the Mudra Loan program, Shah noted that these efforts have dramatically changed the lives of women in rural and urban India.

“Whether it’s agriculture, manufacturing, or digital innovation, empowered women are leaving their mark. They are breaking barriers and challenging outdated social norms,” he said.

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Women in Leadership: A Growing Trend

Amit Shah further pointed out the increasing number of women occupying leadership roles in politics, business, and grassroots governance. From Sarpanches in remote villages to CEOs of startups, Indian women are achieving milestones once thought impossible.

He reiterated that empowering women is not a temporary agenda but a long-term national commitment. He added that the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat is incomplete without women becoming self-sufficient, confident, and independent contributors to the nation’s economy.

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Economic Impact of Empowered Women

Studies suggest that enhancing women’s participation in the workforce could significantly boost India’s GDP. Shah referenced such findings to explain how empowered women are not just symbols of progress but also powerful economic drivers.

“Every woman who is educated, skilled, and confident in her abilities adds a layer of strength to the Indian economy,” said Shah. He further encouraged private sectors and civil society to contribute toward women’s empowerment by creating inclusive, respectful, and opportunity-rich environments.

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Government Schemes Aimed at Empowered Women

Shah detailed several government schemes tailored to support empowered women. These include:

• Stand-Up India Scheme: To promote women entrepreneurship by providing loans and mentoring.
• Mahila E-Haat: A digital marketing platform for women entrepreneurs.
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY): Ensuring maternity benefits for working women.
• Skill India and Digital India: Offering digital training and skill development to enhance employability for women in the modern job market.

“These initiatives aim to convert potential into power, and dreams into enterprises,” he said.

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Empowered Women in Rural India

The Union Home Minister also highlighted the tremendous rise of empowered women in rural India. He noted that women self-help groups (SHGs) have become the backbone of village economies, contributing to agriculture, food processing, and handicrafts.

“Today, village-level entrepreneurs are women who are managing milk cooperatives, weaving units, and organic farms. Their work is proof that given the right platform, women can lead rural transformation,” Shah noted.

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Societal Transformation Through Empowerment

Shah asserted that empowering women leads to a ripple effect that benefits entire families, communities, and future generations. “When you empower a woman, you don’t just support her dreams—you educate the next generation, lift communities out of poverty, and build a stronger nation,” he said.

He urged citizens and organizations alike to support girls’ education, prevent gender-based violence, and foster an environment where empowered women can flourish without fear or prejudice.

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Vision for the Future

The Union Home Minister concluded by reinforcing the government’s commitment to building a future where empowered women are not the exception, but the norm. He called for a collective national effort to recognize, respect, and promote women’s achievements across every domain.

“Our vision of an Aatmanirbhar Bharat rests on the shoulders of every empowered daughter, mother, and sister of this great country. Let us pledge to support them, celebrate them, and walk beside them in India’s journey toward greatness,” Amit Shah concluded.