As we celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, India is shining a light on the impactful role women play in the nation’s development. This year’s theme, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” emphasizes the need for stronger protections and equal opportunities for women everywhere.
The origins of International Women’s Day date back to the early 1900s, with a significant protest by Russian women in 1917 demanding “bread and peace.” The United Nations officially recognized the day in 1977, making it a global occasion to honor women’s achievements and advocate for gender equality.
The “Give to Gain” campaign, set to gain prominence in 2026, motivates people to support women through mentorship and resources. The underlying message is clear: empowering women leads to stronger communities.
India’s approach to women’s empowerment has evolved significantly. Initially focused on women’s development, it has now shifted to a model where women lead the way. The Constitution of India lays a strong foundation for this shift, guaranteeing equal rights and opportunities since the country’s independence. Articles 15 and 16 prohibit discrimination, while Directive Principles advocate for equal livelihoods.
Government programs have been essential in expanding opportunities for women in areas like education, health, and financial inclusion. Education remains a cornerstone of empowerment. Initiatives like Samagra Shiksha and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas aim to support girls’ education. Female enrollment in higher education rose sharply, with over 2.18 crore women enrolled in 2022–23. Notably, women now make up more than half of UGC NET-JRF scholars in STEM fields.
Financial security is also gaining ground. The Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, part of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao campaign, has led to more than 4.53 crore accounts being opened, securing over ₹3.33 lakh crore in deposits by December 2025.
Health programs like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana have transferred over ₹20,000 crore to support pregnant women. Initiatives focused on maternal care have helped reduce India’s maternal mortality ratio from 130 in 2014–16 to 88 in 2021–23.
Access to basic services is transforming lives. Over 10 crore LPG connections have been provided through the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, and the Jal Jeevan Mission has increased rural tap water coverage to over 81% of households. The Swachh Bharat Mission has also built more than 12 crore toilets, enhancing sanitation and dignity for many women.
Women’s economic participation is on the rise, with Self Help Groups mobilizing over 10 crore rural households and providing access to credit worth over ₹12 lakh crore. Programs like Lakhpati Didi are specifically aimed at helping rural women develop sustainable livelihoods.
Technology is opening new vistas, too. The NaMo Drone Didi initiative is empowering self-help groups to operate agricultural drones, allowing rural women to engage in tech sectors that were once out of reach.
Financial inclusion remains a pivotal focus. Around 68% of loans from the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana have gone to women, and initiatives like Stand-Up India are expanding opportunities for women-led businesses.
Women are also gaining representation in governance. Nearly half of the elected representatives in local governance are women, thanks to the 106th Constitutional Amendment, which reserves one-third of seats in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies for women.
Celebrations in New Delhi this year include a Shakti Walk, bringing together women from various fields, and a formal event to honor achievers in science, governance, and arts. Beyond the official celebrations, the message is clear: women are increasingly shaping businesses and communities in India. From grassroots movements in rural areas to entrepreneurial ventures in cities, their impact is remarkable.
Looking ahead, as India aims for a developed future by 2047, the growing involvement of women in education, economics, and governance suggests their influence will only continue to grow, driving the nation’s progress forward.
