Nari Shakti Vandan Act to Transform Women’s Role in Governance: Odisha CM

Bhubaneswar: Emphasising a paradigm shift in India’s democratic framework, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday said the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023 will redefine women’s participation in governance and policy-making.

Addressing the “Nari Shakti Vandan Town Hall Meeting” in the capital, Majhi stated that the legislation goes beyond political reform and represents the aspirations of millions of women. He credited Narendra Modi for spearheading a vision that places women at the centre of national development.

Highlighting the impact of the Act, the Chief Minister said the provision for one-third reservation in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies would open new avenues for women leaders. He added that Odisha’s experience at the grassroots level, where over 14 lakh women have served in Panchayati Raj institutions, has already proven their leadership capabilities.

Majhi also linked political empowerment with economic independence, pointing to flagship initiatives such as Subhadra Yojana and Lakhpati Didi. He said these programmes aim to strengthen women’s financial position and enable them to take active roles in sectors like entrepreneurship, digital finance, and agriculture.

Calling for a broader societal shift, the Chief Minister said women today are excelling across fields, from governance to defence, and must be given equal opportunities to lead. He urged citizens to support this transition and embrace women’s leadership at every level.

Odisha Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy highlighted the importance of ensuring adequate representation of women in legislative bodies, while Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said the Act would create a seamless pathway for women from Panchayats to Parliament. She also referred to welfare schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, aimed at supporting women’s health and well-being.

Renowned writer Pratibha Ray encouraged women to recognise their inner strength and contribute actively to nation-building. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Chief Secretary Anu Garg, athlete Anuradha Biswal, and classical dancer Aruna Mohanty.