New Delhi- Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked International Women's Day with a distinctive initiative, turning over his social media accounts to women making significant contributions across various fields. This innovative approach aims to spotlight female achievers while amplifying their voices to a broader audience.
Nuclear scientist Elina Mishra from Odisha, Shilpi Soni, a space scientist from MP's Sagar, shared their thoughts as they helmed the PM’s social media properties on March 8.
"Both of us, Elina and Shilpi are seeing the wide range of opportunities opening up in our respective sectors. It was unimaginable that a sector like nuclear technology would offer so many opportunities for women in India. Similarly, the increasing participation of women and the private sector in the world of space makes India the most happening place to innovate and grow! Indian women surely have the talent and India surely has the right platform!", they wrote.
Besides Elina and Shilpi, Anita Devi was another trailblazing women who took over PM Modi's social media handle.
Anita Devi, a resident of Anantpur village in Nalanda district, has faced significant struggles in her life. However, she always harbored the desire to achieve something on her own. In 2016, she decided to become self-employed. During that time, the craze for start-ups was on the rise. Inspired by this trend, nine years ago, she established her own company, Madhopur Farmers Producer Company Limited.
With the support of the Bihar government's Jeevika project and the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM), she received training in mushroom production. Subsequently, she connected hundreds of women to mushroom farming. Now, her dream is to see every woman in her village stand on her own feet. Recently, with the announcement of the establishment of the Makhana Board, she is also considering venturing into work related to makhana (fox nuts).
"Vanakkam! I am Vaishali, and I am thrilled to be taking over our PM Thiru Narendra Modi Ji's social media properties and that too on Women's Day. As many of you would know, I play chess and I feel very proud to be representing our beloved country in many tournaments," wrote Vaishali, the 23-year-old chess champion.
Vaishali reflected on her chess journey, recalling that she started playing the sport at the age of six. "It has been a learning, thrilling, and rewarding journey," she said, adding that her experiences have shaped her both as a player and an individual.
Encouraging young women to pursue their passions, Vaishali said, "I want to give a message to all the women out there, especially the young girls -- follow your dreams, no matter the hurdles. Your passion will power your success. I want to encourage women to break barriers in any field they choose because I know they can!"
Expressing her determination to improve her FIDE ranking and bring greater pride to India, she credited her family and mentors for their unwavering support.
"I've been fortunate to have parents like Thiru Rameshbabu and Thirumathi Nagalakshmi, who stood by me throughout my journey. My brother, Indian Chess Grandmaster Praggnanandhaa, and my coach, Vishwanathan Anand, have been pillars of strength," she said.
Vaishali also urged families to support their daughters' ambitions. "I've also got a message for parents and siblings -- trust in your daughters' abilities, and they'll achieve wonders," she emphasised.
Earlier, in his message to the nation, the Prime Minister wrote, "We bow to our Nari Shakti on Women's Day! Our Government has always worked for empowering women, reflecting in our schemes and programmes. Today, as promised, my social media properties will be taken over by women who are making a mark in diverse fields!"
In an accompanying video message, Modi emphasized India's traditional reverence for women's dignity, noting that "nations and communities that provide women with greater opportunities for growth will progress at an unprecedented pace." He characterized the current era as a period of "women-led development" where government policies and laws are being specifically designed with women's interests in mind.
The Prime Minister first announced this social media handover during his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address last month, inviting inspirational women to share their stories, achievements, and experiences. Through this platform, Modi aims to encourage more women to participate in nation-building activities while recognizing their contributions to society.
"Respect for daughters has always been a top priority in our culture. Women's power has played an essential role in the Independence movement and in drafting our Constitution," Modi stated, acknowledging the historical significance of women's contributions to India.
Beyond the digital initiative, the Prime Minister traveled to Gujarat's Navsari to participate in the 'Lakhpati Didi Sammelan' event at Vansi-Borsi. There, he distributed over Rs 450 crore in financial assistance to more than 2.5 lakh women from over 25,000 Self-Help Groups across the state. During the event, Modi interacted with ten selected 'Lakhpati Didis' and presented certificates to five of them, underscoring his government's commitment to women's economic empowerment.
Modi described the country's 'Nari Shakti' (women power) as the strongest pillar supporting India's vision for 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India), highlighting the essential role women play in the nation's development agenda.
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