Jaipur, April 15 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Wednesday said that the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam marks a historic step towards strengthening women’s participation in politics, ensuring 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and state legislative assemblies.

Addressing the Nari Shakti Vandan Conference at Birla Auditorium, CM Sharma stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the legislation will empower women to actively contribute to governance, policymaking, education and national security.

He added that enhanced political representation would accelerate the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India).

The Chief Minister also urged women to express their support for the Act by giving a missed call to a dedicated number.

Highlighting the importance of women’s role in nation-building, Sharma said that India’s cultural ethos has always emphasised women’s empowerment. “Women are not only managing households but are also excelling across sectors such as startups, education, sports, science and the police force,” he noted.

The Chief Minister credited the Centre for launching multiple initiatives aimed at women’s upliftment, including schemes such as Jan Dhan Yojana, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and Swachh Bharat Mission, which he said have improved financial inclusion, dignity and overall quality of life for women. Sharma said the state government remains committed to ensuring women’s safety and dignity.

He highlighted that over 20 lakh women have been trained under various initiatives, leading to the creation of more than 16 lakh “Lakhpati Didis”.

Schemes like Lado Protsahan Yojana have benefited over 6.5 lakh girls, while financial assistance under Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana has been increased to Rs 6,500.

He added that 600 Kalika Patrolling Units and 65 Anti-Romeo Squads have been deployed to strengthen women’s safety, alongside measures such as LPG subsidies and free travel benefits on special occasions.

Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari said women’s empowerment is central to both state and Central government policies.

She described the reservation law as a “historic reform” that will ensure women’s voices are reflected in decision-making and governance.

The event also saw participation from ministers, MPs, officials and a large number of women and students.

The Chief Minister signed a ‘Signature Wall’ supporting the Act, while attendees engaged in various activities, marking the occasion as a significant step towards inclusive democracy.

–IANS

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