Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar Advocates Women’s Empowerment as Vital Investment for Society’s Future at FICCI Event

New Delhi: Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar underscored the paramount importance of empowering women as an investment in the present and future of society while addressing members of the FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO) on the occasion of the culmination of 40 years of FLO at Bharat Mandapam.

Dhankhar emphasized that promoting equal opportunities, breaking down barriers, and amplifying the voices and achievements of women contribute to building a fairer, more just, prosperous, and sustainable society.

Recognizing gender equality and women-led development as fundamental principles of a just and progressive society, the Vice-President commended the enabling gender-neutral ecosystem in place. He noted recent affirmative initiatives such as granting permanent commission for women in the Armed Forces and the admission of girls in Sainik Schools.

Referring to the passage of the ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam’ in parliament as a game-changer for gender equality and women’s empowerment, Dhankhar termed it a definitive milestone in Indian polity. He emphasized that increased representation of women in Parliament will help challenge patriarchal mindsets.

Addressing apprehensions and stereotypes of women as ‘proxy candidates’, the Vice-President highlighted the leadership role played by women scientists in India’s Chandrayaan Mission. He emphasized that women today are reclaiming their rightful place in society and are no longer controlled by male family members.

Highlighting the intrinsic link between gender justice and sustainable development, Dhankhar asserted that “gender justice and women’s economic justice are key to achieving Sustainable Development.” He emphasized that when more women participate in the workforce, economies grow.

Calling women natural ambassadors of economic nationalism, Dhankhar urged everyone to uphold economic nationalism. He stressed that no nation can progress without steadfast commitment to its nationalism and culture. Economic nationalism, according to the Vice-President, is fundamentally essential for growth.