Advancing Women's Empowerment: A Journey of Progress

In contemplating the barriers women face in reaching top positions and making autonomous decisions, we confront a perplexing question: Why is there still skepticism about a woman's ability to excel in certain roles? Why does the rhetoric of women's empowerment often diverge from the reality of women being held back?

Indeed, the concept of women's empowerment emerges as a beacon of hope, offering women the awareness of their inherent rights and the imperative of carving out a place for themselves in society. Yet, as we reflect on our current landscape, it becomes evident that there remains much ground to cover in our journey towards true gender equity.

At its essence, women's empowerment hinges on the fundamental principle of granting women the liberty to navigate their own paths, to wield agency in decision-making, and to achieve financial autonomy. It encapsulates an elevation of women's sense of self-worth, nurturing their capacity to make choices, and championing their entitlement to effectuate social change, not only for themselves but for society at large.

Delving into the critical facets of women's empowerment, we confront key domains such as education, health, security, finances, and emotional well-being. The statistics, such as the literacy rates disparity between men and women, underscore a persistent gap in addressing basic needs like education. This begs the question: Where do we falter in ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities?

Despite commendable efforts by governments, including unprecedented initiatives for women's empowerment, the disparity persists. Why does this gap endure, despite our collective aspirations for progress?

Turning our attention to financial independence, we unveil its profound significance in the empowerment narrative. Financial autonomy is not

merely a destination but a journey—a journey that holds the potential to catalyze societal transformation. When women achieve financial independence, they become architects of social reform, propelling broader advancements within their communities.

Financial self-reliance empowers women to transcend barriers, serving as exemplars for future generations. This fosters a cultural ethos that reveres independence and equality, fostering a more inclusive and progressive society. It transcends mere monetary gain; it symbolizes empowerment, choice, and resilience in the face of adversity.

Even in eras past, when women were not officially deemed financially independent, their resourcefulness and prudence shone through. They adeptly managed household finances, exhibiting a wisdom that transcended conventional definitions of financial autonomy. The life of esteemed figures like Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, India's Finance Minister, exemplifies such sagacity, underscoring the transformative power of responsible financial stewardship.

In essence, the journey towards women's empowerment is multifaceted, demanding a concerted effort to dismantle systemic barriers and

foster an environment conducive to women's flourishing. As we navigate this

path, let us heed the call to action, advocating for policies and practices that uphold the inherent dignity and agency of every woman. For in championing women's empowerment, we chart a course towards a more equitable and inclusive future for all.

A few days ago, I watched an interview of our respected President, Mrs. Draupadi Murmu, conducted by our Union Minister, Mrs. Smriti Irani. The interview was incredibly empowering, shedding light on Mrs. Murmu's resilient journey, especially after losing both her sons and husband. Despite facing such profound losses, she did not lose courage. Mrs. Murmu shared insights into how yoga, meditation, focused attention, and the support of her well-wishers played a pivotal role in bringing about positive changes in her life. Her determination, coupled with the efforts of her supporters, has led her to the prestigious position she holds as the first citizen of our country today. It raises a poignant question: why, whenever a woman aspires to excel in our so-called male-dominated society and corporate culture, she often encounters obstacles? This might be a burning issue for some and deemed normal by others. However, lately, I have been witnessing not only in my own life but also in the lives of many of my female friends, the struggle to balance personal and professional life. Despite their eagerness and proactive efforts to bridge the gap created by selfless contributions to their families, they face resistance when attempting to re-enter the workforce. This disparity in opportunities becomes a hindrance for women striving to revive their careers, creating a barrier to reclaiming the selfless sacrifices they made for their families. The issue is not only personal but resonates in the stories of numerous women around me. The question arises - how can we break this cycle and give these women the chance they deserve to restart their careers and contribute to society? You seem to have limited experience. How much experience do you need? Before getting married, do you ask a girl about her sexual history or menstrual cycles? Similarly, when we aspire to pursue our dreams, why do people often hinder rather than support us? Why is women's empowerment, independence, and standing on their own feet often confined to mere words on paper, and why are we held back when we strive to progress?

Recently, I had a conversation with someone who believed that women should not be in top positions due to the challenges they face, especially after marriage. Their perspective was that there shouldn't be a "second inning" for women post-marriage. What evidence must be presented to challenge such beliefs and instill confidence that we are not inferior to anyone? It raises questions about societal norms and the need to break free from them, emphasizing the importance of proving that women are capable and deserving, both in professional and personal spheres.

Today, we honor the indomitable spirit of women, breaking barriers with grace and resilience. In this race of equality, they stand as pioneers, carving paths and shattering stereotypes. Let's celebrate their achievements, their strength, and their unwavering determination on this special day and every day.

Happy Women's Day

Roli Prasad