Active Participation of Women Vital for Realising Vision of Viksit Bharat by 2047: President Murmu
KOCHI: President Droupadi Murmu on Friday emphasised that the active participation of women is crucial for India to harness its demographic dividend and achieve the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.
Addressing the centenary celebrations of St Teresa’s College in Kochi, the President said societies led by women are “likely to be more humane as well as more efficient.”
Highlighting the growing role of women in India’s development, she noted that the Gender Budget allocation has increased by four-and-a-half times over the past decade, while the number of women-led MSMEs has nearly doubled between 2011 and 2024.
“One of the key pillars of a Viksit Bharat by 2047 is achieving 70 per cent women workforce participation. Women from across socio-economic backgrounds are driving India’s progress,” Murmu said.
Commending Kerala for having the most favourable gender ratio in the country, the President said the state’s example could be emulated by others. She also recalled the contributions of three women from Kerala—Ammu Swaminathan, Annie Mascarene, and Dakshayani Velayudhan—who were among the 15 women members of the Constituent Assembly and played a key role in shaping discussions on fundamental rights, social justice, and gender equality.
Murmu lauded Kerala’s legacy of women pioneers, noting that Justice Anna Chandy was the first woman High Court judge in India, and Justice M. Fathima Beevi became the first woman judge of the Supreme Court in 1989.
Praising St Teresa’s College, the President said its students “represent young, thriving, and vibrant India,” and its alumni have made significant contributions to national development.
She commended the college’s community work and simple lifestyle, adding that students’ participation in flood relief activities reflected their spirit of service.
Referring to the college’s project SLATE—focused on promoting Sustainability, Leadership, and Agency through Education—Murmu said it aligns with the objectives of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
“By connecting youth with India’s Sustainable Development Goals and preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow, the college has shown great foresight,” she said, adding that institutions like St Teresa’s will play a key role in making India a “knowledge superpower.”
Murmu also appreciated initiatives such as Radio Kochi 90 FM, which promotes community participation across local areas.
Encouraging students to make life choices with clarity and courage, she urged them to follow paths that align with their passions and capabilities.
“A society led by women leaders will be more humane and efficient,” she reiterated, expressing confidence that the students would demonstrate the power of women-led development in their future endeavours.
