NEW DELHI: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta said that Indian women can shape the future of society if they define their own aspirations and pursue them with determination. Addressing participants at the opening session of the national conference “Bharati – Nari se Narayani,” she said women today are excelling in every field and often outperforming their male counterparts.
Gupta noted that the qualities required for leadership—decision-making ability, courage and dedication—are not determined by gender. She encouraged women to fulfil their responsibilities towards family and society while also making time for their personal happiness and well-being.
Highlighting the importance of women’s health, Delhi Chief Minister said that women often prioritise the well-being of their families but must also ensure that they take care of their own physical and mental health. She also urged mothers to provide their daughters with opportunities and an environment that allows them to pursue their dreams freely.
“If women set their own goals and work towards them with confidence, they can truly transform from ‘Nari’ to ‘Narayani’,” Gupta said, adding that women occupying positions of authority should actively support and mentor others to help them progress.
Speaking about initiatives taken by the Delhi government to support girls’ education and empowerment, she mentioned the Lakhpati Bitiya Scheme introduced by her administration. Under the programme, financial assistance has been expanded for girls pursuing higher education. While earlier benefits were limited to those completing Class 10, the government has now decided to provide financial support of over Rs 1.25 lakh to girls who complete their undergraduate studies.
Gupta also highlighted policy changes that allow women to work in night shifts in the national capital, noting that earlier restrictions had limited such opportunities.
The inaugural session was chaired by V Shanta Kumari, Chief Functionary of the Rashtra Sevika Samiti, who said Indian civilisation has always recognised the strength and dignity of women. She described women as a stabilising force that sustains society and said they possess the potential to rise to the level symbolised by the term “Narayani.”
Shanta Kumari ji pointed out that Indian women have demonstrated excellence and courage in diverse domains—from religious and cultural traditions to national service and social initiatives.
Shivani V., Secretary of the Bharatiya Vidwat Parishad, said the idea of “Nari se Narayani” represents a journey of self-realisation. She emphasised that women are not merely beneficiaries of empowerment programmes but are themselves sources of energy and leadership in society.
According to her, the conference aims to stimulate meaningful discussions on women’s role in shaping India’s intellectual, social and cultural landscape. Recommendations emerging from the deliberations will be compiled and submitted to relevant departments of the Government of India.
The event also featured addresses by Sharanya president Anju Ahuja, Admaya Chetana Managing Trustee Tejaswini Ananth Kumar, and Rashtra Sevika Samiti leaders Vijaya Sharma and Charu Kalra.
During the two-day conference, participants will deliberate on eight thematic areas related to women’s leadership, education, culture and social development. Special panel discussions will feature women Members of Parliament, university vice-chancellors and spiritual leaders, offering diverse perspectives on women’s empowerment in contemporary India.
