Dipak Kurmi
International Women’s Day, observed annually on March 8, is more than just a celebration—it is a global movement recognizing the achievements and contributions of women across national, ethnic, linguistic, and cultural boundaries. In 2025, the theme “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” reinforces the call for inclusive action, unlocking opportunities for every woman and girl, irrespective of her background. This year also marks a significant milestone—the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a pioneering document that reshaped the global discourse on gender equality and women’s rights.
A Milestone Year: The 30th Anniversary of the Beijing Declaration
The year 2025 holds historical significance as it commemorates three decades of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark agreement that laid the foundation for women’s empowerment worldwide. Since its adoption in 1995, this progressive framework has influenced policies advocating legal protection, access to essential services, and the eradication of gender-based discrimination. Over the years, it has played a crucial role in challenging outdated norms and stereotypes, ensuring that the principles of gender equality remain at the heart of global development agendas.
India’s Commitment to Women’s Empowerment
India stands at the forefront of championing women’s empowerment, moving from women’s development to women-led development—an approach that not only uplifts women but also positions them as architects of national progress. This transformation is evident in the country’s policies, legal frameworks, and initiatives designed to enhance women’s participation in education, healthcare, economic growth, and leadership roles.
On March 3, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indian women to share their inspiring journeys on the NaMo App Open Forum, highlighting the resilience of women across various domains. As a special initiative, he announced that selected women would take over his social media accounts on March 8, amplifying their voices and celebrating their achievements on a global platform.
Constitutional and Legal Safeguards for Women in India
The Indian Constitution upholds gender equality through multiple provisions, ensuring that women have the same rights and opportunities as men. Key legal frameworks supporting women’s rights include:
Article 14: Guarantees equality before the law.
Article 15: Prohibits discrimination based on sex.
Article 39 & 42: Advocates equal livelihood opportunities, equal pay, and maternity benefits.
Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005) and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act (2013) ensure safety and legal recourse for women.
Criminal Law (Amendment) Act (2018) strengthens laws against crimes targeting women.
India is also a signatory to international treaties such as CEDAW (1979), the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948), and the Beijing Declaration (1995), reinforcing its commitment to gender justice.
Empowering Women Through Education
Education remains the cornerstone of women’s empowerment, enabling them to break free from societal constraints and achieve economic independence. India has undertaken several initiatives to promote gender parity in education, with notable achievements such as:
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): A flagship program encouraging the education of girls.
Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan & NEP 2020: Focusing on inclusive education for girls.
STEM Participation: Women now constitute 42.57% of STEM students, with initiatives like Vigyan Jyoti promoting female participation in science and technology.
Digital Education Access: Platforms like SWAYAM and the National Digital Library provide online learning opportunities, reaching millions of young women.
Health & Nutrition: A Focus on Well-being
Women’s health is a crucial determinant of national progress, and the Indian government has implemented several policies to improve maternal and child health. The Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) has disbursed ₹17,362 crore to 3.81 crore women, providing financial support for maternal care. Significant progress has been made in reducing Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) from 130 (2014-16) to 97 (2018-20) and improving life expectancy to 71.4 years.
Other major achievements include:
Jal Jeevan Mission: Ensuring access to clean drinking water for 15.4 crore households.
Swachh Bharat Mission: Construction of 11.8 crore toilets, improving hygiene and sanitation.
Poshan Abhiyaan: Strengthening maternal and child nutrition programs.
Economic Empowerment and Financial Inclusion
Women’s financial independence is pivotal for their overall empowerment. India has made significant strides in economic inclusion through initiatives such as:
PM Jan Dhan Yojana: Over 30.46 crore women’s accounts opened.
Stand-Up India & MUDRA Schemes: Over 69% of microloans granted to women entrepreneurs.
Self-Help Groups (SHGs): 10 crore women connected to 9 million SHGs, fostering economic self-sufficiency.
Women in Leadership: Increasing participation in armed forces, civil aviation, and entrepreneurship.
Digital & Technological Empowerment
The Digital India initiative has transformed women’s access to technology and financial services. Key initiatives include:
PMGDISHA: Trained 60 million rural citizens in digital literacy.
Common Service Centres (CSCs): 67,000 women entrepreneurs operating digital centers.
Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission: Leveraging technology to improve healthcare access.
Ensuring Safety and Protection
Women’s safety remains a priority, with dedicated funds and fast-track courts strengthening legal protection. The Nirbhaya Fund, with an allocation of ₹11,298 crore, supports multiple projects, including:
One Stop Centres (OSCs): Assisting over 1 million women.
Emergency Response System (112): Handling 38.34 crore calls.
Safe City Projects: Enhancing women’s security in urban areas.
Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs): 750 courts, including 408 for POCSO cases.
The Road Ahead: Towards a Gender-Equal Future
As India progresses toward women-led development, sustained efforts are needed to bridge the remaining gaps. Strengthening policies, promoting grassroots participation, and leveraging digital inclusion will ensure that no woman is left behind.
International Women’s Day 2025 is not just a moment of celebration but a call to action—to reaffirm the commitment to gender equality and recognize the limitless potential of women in shaping the nation’s future.
With continued dedication, India stands on the brink of a new era of empowerment, where every woman and girl has the right to education, economic independence, security, and leadership—ensuring an inclusive and progressive society for generations to come.
(The writer can be reached at dipakkurmiglpltd@gmail.com)
