International Women’s Day-2025
Introduction
- International Women’s Day is celebrated on 8th March around the world.
- This day is recognized for their achievements across national, ethnic, linguistic, cultural, economic or political boundaries.
- Theme for 2025– For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.”
- This year it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.
Government’s Efforts Towards Women’s Empowerment
- Constitutional and Legal Framework
- The Constitution of India ensures gender equality through Articles 14, 15, and 51(a)(e).
- International Treaties include the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), the Beijing Declaration, and others promoting gender equality globally.
Government Schemes for Women’s Upliftment
- Education
- Right to Education Act (2009) ensures education for all.
- Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, and NEP 2020 promote gender equity.
- Increased female enrollment in education, especially in STEM.
- Health & Nutrition
- Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) supports pregnant women with cash incentives.
- Reduction in Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Under-5 Mortality Rate (U5MR).
- Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission improve sanitation and health.
- Economic Empowerment & Financial Inclusion
- Increased women’s participation in decision-making and the workforce.
- PM Jan Dhan Yojana, Stand-Up India, and MUDRA Scheme support financial inclusion and entrepreneurship.
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs) connect millions of women to financial opportunities.
- Digital & Technological Empowerment
- Digital India initiatives and PMGDISHA (Prime Minister’s Digital Saksharta Abhiyan) boost women’s digital literacy.
- Common Service Centers (CSCs) empower women entrepreneurs with digital services.
- Safety & Protection
- Nirbhaya Fund (₹11,298 crore) supports initiatives like One Stop Centres (OSCs), Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) -112, and Safe City Projects.
- Legal frameworks like Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018, Protection from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, and POCSO Act, 2012 enhance women’s safety and legal protection.
Institutional and Legislative Reforms
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 strengthens gender justice provisions.
- Initiatives like Nari Adalat and increased representation in CAPFs (33% female reservation) promote gender equity in law enforcement.
Conclusion
- India has made remarkable progress in women’s empowerment through comprehensive policies, targeted schemes, and legal frameworks.
- These steps reflect India’s commitment to women’s empowerment and gender equality.