PM pushes for quick rollout of women’s quota

Ahead of the special sitting of Parliament’s Budget Session Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said the Nari Shakti Vandan Act must be implemented on time so that women’s participation strengthens the country’s democracy. “Our effort and priority is that this work should be accomplished through dialogue, cooperation and participation, which will enhance the dignity of Parliament,” Modi said at the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ in the national Capital.

Acknowledging the nationwide enthusiasm among women on this issue, the PM observed that women across the country are voicing their aspirations about reaching Assemblies and the Lok Sabha. “I appeal to all women to maintain their active participation in this entire process and meet their MPs to share their perspectives and expectations,” PM Modi remarked.

Recalling the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act in the new Parliament building in 2023, the PM noted that it was passed unanimously with all parties agreeing that it should be implemented by 2029 in any case. Making a special appeal, PM Modi urged women to take the discussions from the Nari Shakti Vandan programme to every village in the country through personal meetings and social media.

Tracing the contribution of women from the freedom struggle to the Constituent Assembly, the Prime Minister highlighted the role of Nari Shakti in laying the foundation of independent India. “From President to Prime Minister, wherever women have been, they have created their own legacy,” stated Modi.

Citing panchayati raj institutions as an excellent example of women’s leadership, the Prime Minister shared that over 14 lakh women are successfully working in local government bodies today. In approximately 21 states, their participation in panchayats has reached nearly 50 percent. “This active participation of lakhs of women in politics and social life surprises even the world’s leading leaders and political experts, enhancing India’s pride,” remarked the Prime Minister.

Emphasizing that lakhs of women working in local bodies and institutions for years now possess extensive experience, the Prime Minister said they are ready and eager for bigger roles.