Fri Mar 07 04:10:00 UTC 2025: ## India Celebrates International Women’s Day with Focus on Empowerment

**New Delhi, March 7, 2025** – India is marking International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, themed “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” with a renewed commitment to gender equality. The day coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark document for women’s rights globally.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has spearheaded a unique IWD initiative, encouraging Indian women to share their inspirational stories on the NaMo App. Selected participants will even manage his social media accounts on March 8th, amplifying their voices and experiences. This initiative underscores the government’s ongoing efforts to transition from women’s development to women-led development.

India’s commitment to gender equality is enshrined in its Constitution, guaranteeing equality before the law and prohibiting sex-based discrimination. Further, the government has implemented numerous schemes to empower women across various sectors:

* **Education:** Initiatives promoting equal access to quality education for girls have led to increased female enrollment surpassing that of males in recent years.
* **Healthcare:** Policies focusing on maternal and child health, nutrition, and accessible medical support for all women are in place.
* **Economic Empowerment:** Programs aimed at promoting financial independence, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities, including reserving 10% of Small Industries Development Bank of India funds for women-led startups, are driving economic growth.
* **Digital Inclusion:** Initiatives are ensuring women’s participation in the digital revolution.
* **Safety and Security:** The government has implemented legislative measures, dedicated funds (like the Nirbhaya Fund, with ₹11,298 crore allocated), and fast-track courts to combat crimes against women.

The government’s multifaceted approach to women’s empowerment reflects significant progress across various sectors. However, continued commitment to policy-making, community engagement, and digital inclusion is vital to ensure women continue to play a central role in shaping India’s future.

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