In a powerful address, Union Petroleum and Housing Minister Hardeep Singh Puri articulated the central government’s unwavering commitment to women-led development. This paradigm shift places women at the epicenter of policy-making, driving sustainable progress across urban and rural landscapes.
Puri delved into the mechanics of empowerment, spotlighting the Lakhpati Didi initiative under the National Rural Livelihood Mission. Over 10 crore women have been linked to self-help groups, generating collective incomes exceeding Rs 2 lakh crore annually. Such grassroots successes exemplify how targeted interventions yield exponential returns.
The minister praised the expansion of maternity benefits and creche facilities, which have enabled millions of women to balance family and career. ‘Our policies dismantle barriers, unleashing untapped potential,’ he stated, referencing a dramatic uptick in female STEM enrollments.
Puri also addressed global benchmarks, positioning India’s model as a blueprint for emerging economies. With women now comprising 25% of startup founders, the ecosystem is ripe for innovation led by female trailblazers.
Challenges like safety and mobility remain, yet Puri highlighted Nirbhaya Fund’s utilization and urban mobility projects. His vision culminates in a resolute call: by 2047, women-led development will define India’s Viksit Bharat narrative, ensuring no one is left behind.