Dialogue, Participation and Cooperation to Drive Nari Shakti Vandan Act Implementation: PM Shri Modi

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said that India is set to take one of the most significant decisions of the 21st century, dedicated to the nation’s women’s power. To enhance women’s participation in democracy, a special session of Parliament will commence on April 16, 2026. He noted that the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, 2023, was unanimously passed by all political parties in 2023, and discussions on providing reservations to women in legislative bodies have been ongoing for decades. The Prime Minister stated that efforts are underway to implement the Act and emphasised that its execution should be driven through dialogue, cooperation, and participation. He expressed confidence that all stakeholders would extend their support this time as well, enabling Parliament to reach new heights of dignity. The Act will pave the way for greater representation of women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies, creating a positive environment across the country. He congratulated all women on the dawn of a new era.

Prime Minister Shri Modi was addressing the national-level Nari Shakti Vandan Conference at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi on April 13. The event saw participation from eminent personalities and accomplished women from diverse fields, including government, academia, science, sports, entrepreneurship, media, social work, and culture. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav joined the programme virtually from Mantralaya, Bhopal, along with members of the Council of Ministers.

Parliament passed the Nari Shakti Vandan Act in September 2023, marking a significant step towards increasing women’s representation in legislative bodies. The Act provides for reserving one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies. A three-day special session of Parliament has been convened from April 16 to further deliberate on its implementation.

Act to Provide Greater Opportunities to Women

Prime Minister Shri Modi stated that women are already playing significant roles in the country, from the President to the Union Finance Minister. Panchayati Raj institutions are also a strong example of women’s leadership. The Act will further expand opportunities for women. The Central Government is implementing several schemes for women, and increasing their economic participation is essential for building a strong India. He emphasised that India is steadily progressing on the path of women-led development. The Prime Minister also highlighted that the government is sensitive and vigilant towards women’s safety. He said that the women of India have reached new heights through their hard work, courage, and confidence. He called upon women present at the event to spread awareness about the Act to every village, ensuring that women across the country understand their role in decision-making—from village panchayats to Parliament.

Extensive Programmes Across Madhya Pradesh

After the Prime Minister’s address, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav informed ministers at Mantralaya, Bhopal, that, in line with the Prime Minister’s vision, extensive activities are being undertaken across the state to raise awareness about the Act. The State Government is observing Nari Shakti Vandan Fortnight from April 10 to April 25. Large-scale conferences and ‘Nari Shakti’ marches will be organised across the state. Colleges will also conduct various programmes related to the Act during this period.

Appeal for Wider Awareness and Public Participation

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav emphasised the need to disseminate information about the Act widely and called for cooperation from all political parties, organisations and sections of society. Letters have been sent to public representatives, including Members of Parliament, MLAs, representatives of urban local bodies and Panchayati Raj institutions. He has also appealed to social organisations, voluntary groups, and other institutions to actively promote awareness about the Act and encourage greater women’s leadership and representation.

Equal Opportunity for Half the Population

In his letter to public representatives, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stated that the upcoming discussions in Parliament from April 16, 2026, on the full implementation of the Act represent a historic opportunity to make democracy more inclusive and stronger. He emphasised that true societal progress is possible only when half the population is given equal opportunities to participate in decision-making and leadership. He stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the vision of a Developed India is being advanced with significant contributions from women. Today, women in India are excelling in fields ranging from the armed forces and startups to sports and space.

Madhya Pradesh: A Model in Women’s Empowerment

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stated that Madhya Pradesh has consistently emerged as a model state in women’s empowerment. The government has treated women as active partners in development. Schemes such as Ladli Behna and Ladli Laxmi have made millions of women and girls financially self-reliant. The state has also provided special opportunities for women in sectors such as police and teacher recruitment, enabling their greater participation in governance. Women have also been empowered through self-help groups, strengthening the rural economy.

Greater Participation Will Strengthen Public Trust

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav stated that, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Central Government is committed to fully implementing the Act across the country. It would be appropriate for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections and subsequent Assembly elections to be held after the full implementation of women’s reservation. He stated that ensuring women’s direct participation in governance will deepen public trust and infuse new energy into democratic institutions.

Appeal to Rise Above Politics

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav called upon all public representatives to rise above partisan politics and support this historic transformation. He emphasised that this is not about any individual or political party, but about securing a brighter future for women and future generations. He expressed confidence in collective support and urged citizens to help strengthen women’s dignity and uphold the nation’s rich democratic traditions.

Several ministers, including Smt. Sampatiya Uikey, Shri Tulsiram Silawat, Sushri Nirmala Bhuria, Shri Govind Singh Rajput, Shri Narayan Singh Kushwaha, Shri Rakesh Shukla, Shri Pradyumna Singh Tomar, Smt. Krishna Gaur, Shri Gautam Tetwal, and Shri Dilip Ahirwar were present at Mantralaya, Bhopal.