Varanasi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said that women’s empowerment has remained central to his government’s approach, describing “nari shakti” as a key driver in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation.

Speaking at a Mahila Sammelan in Varanasi, the Prime Minister emphasised that ensuring women’s participation in decision-making processes is a major priority. He noted that the vision of a “Viksit Bharat” rests significantly on the strength and contribution of women.

Highlighting changes in Uttar Pradesh, Modi said the current administration has worked to improve women’s safety. Referring to legal reforms such as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, he stated that quicker resolution of serious crimes and the expansion of women’s police stations and counselling centres have contributed to a stronger sense of security.

The Prime Minister also pointed to development initiatives launched during the event, noting that projects worth around ₹6,350 crore have been inaugurated or had their foundation stones laid. These include infrastructure works aimed at improving connectivity between Varanasi and Ayodhya.

He further announced the launch of two Amrit Bharat train services, linking Varanasi to Pune and Ayodhya to Mumbai, aimed at strengthening connectivity between Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra and improving access to major religious and urban centres.

Reiterating his commitment to enhancing women’s political representation, Modi said he is determined to ensure implementation of reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. He referred to the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which provides for 33 per cent reservation for women, and described it as a step towards addressing a long-standing gap.

He also highlighted welfare schemes such as the Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana, which he said supports girls’ education and financial security, and the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, under which many homes have been registered in women’s names.

Reflecting on broader social change, Modi said empowering women within households strengthens families, society, and the nation as a whole. He recalled initiatives launched during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, including programmes aimed at increasing girls’ school enrolment and reducing dropout rates.

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He added that the government has consistently prioritised women’s welfare, citing measures such as the construction of sanitation facilities and financial inclusion initiatives, which he said have improved the quality of life for millions of women across the country.