Women Key to Nation’s Progress, Says Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma

Jaipur, March 2026 : Bhajanlal Sharma said that women are not only the backbone of families but also the most crucial pillar in strengthening society and the nation. He emphasised that the vision of a Developed India and Developed Rajasthan cannot be realised without the active participation of women.

Addressing a gathering at the Chief Minister’s residence, Sharma said the state government is committed to the holistic development of women. He noted that the government is working in line with the vision of Narendra Modi to ensure women’s empowerment through various welfare schemes and development initiatives.

During the event, the Chief Minister interacted with women from diverse fields, including startup entrepreneurs, radio jockeys, women officers working in government departments, candidates selected in competitive examinations such as Rajasthan Administrative Service, as well as social workers, beneficiaries of welfare schemes, and women security personnel and staff working at the Chief Minister’s Office and residence.

Sharma said that the double-engine government at the Centre and in the state is actively formulating policies and programmes to help women progress in every sector. He highlighted that under the Lakhpati Didi scheme, more than 16 lakh women in Rajasthan have become financially independent. Other initiatives such as Solar Didi and Bank Sakhi are also helping women achieve economic and social empowerment.

He further pointed out that women’s participation in politics has been strengthened through the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which provides 33 per cent reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.

The Chief Minister said that women’s empowerment remains a top priority for the state government. Under the Mukhyamantri Lado Protsahan Yojana, more than six lakh girls have benefited so far. Schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and the MA Voucher Scheme have also contributed to improving the welfare and empowerment of women.

He added that 1.39 lakh self-help groups have received livelihood assistance worth ₹679 crore to support women’s economic activities. In addition, more than 19 lakh women pensioners have received financial assistance of ₹6,876 crore under the Mukhyamantri Ekla Nari Samman Pension Yojana. The state government has also provided nearly ₹101 crore under the Mukhyamantri Kanyadan Yojana to support the marriages of more than 27,000 girls.

During the interaction session, several women shared their experiences and success stories. Sonia Verma from Beawar expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts in improving women’s healthcare and thanked the Centre and the state government for introducing the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer prevention.

Madhu Rathore from Hanumangarh shared her journey of success, while social activist Dr. Kriti Bharti spoke about her ongoing work to prevent child marriages and raise awareness in society. Bali Devi from Didwana-Kuchaman said that through the Rajeevika programme, she has become financially independent as a Bank Sakhi and is now helping other women move forward.

Students and women present at the event appreciated the government’s initiatives and highlighted improvements in women’s safety, respect and opportunities. Women entrepreneurs also noted that through programmes like Rajeevika, they are not only improving their family incomes but also creating employment opportunities for others and contributing to the country’s development.