Srinagar, May 17 (JKNS): Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said the women of Jammu and Kashmir are emerging as a strong force in nation-building and are now actively contributing to India’s developmental journey with growing confidence and aspirations.
Speaking during a programme organised by the National Commission for Women (NCW), Dr Singh, according to news agency JKNS, congratulated NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar for launching the “Power Dialogues on Women” initiative and choosing Jammu and Kashmir for the fourth edition of the programme.
“I congratulate the Chairperson of the National Commission for Women, Vijaya Rahatkar, for bringing this important initiative to Jammu and Kashmir. It reflects the special attention being given to this region under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Dr Singh said.
He said Jammu and Kashmir has historically remained a land of spirituality, culture and strong women personalities such as Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon, but also witnessed decades of suffering due to terrorism and violence.
“Unfortunately, for nearly 20 to 30 years, this land witnessed difficult times. Many women lost their husbands, many daughters lost their parents and several families suffered immense pain. Now, as Jammu and Kashmir emerges from that dark phase, institutions like the National Commission for Women reaching out to this region holds great significance,” he said.
Dr Singh said the women and girls of Jammu and Kashmir are highly talented and their confidence has significantly increased over the past decade due to various welfare and empowerment schemes introduced by the Centre.
“The women of Jammu and Kashmir are extremely intelligent and capable. Over the last 10 to 12 years, their confidence and aspirations have grown tremendously. We are witnessing an aspirational surge among the daughters of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.
Highlighting the achievements of women from the Union Territory, the Minister said girls from Jammu and Kashmir are now securing top ranks in civil services examinations and performing exceptionally well in IIT and NIT entrance exams.
“They are now fully integrated into the national mainstream and are ready to contribute to the vision of a developed India by 2047, when the country will celebrate 100 years of independence,” he said.
Dr Singh expressed confidence that the daughters, mothers and sisters of Jammu and Kashmir will play a major role in shaping the future of both the Union Territory and the nation. (JKNS)
