Shakti Vandan: A Celebration of India’s Self-Reliance

Empowering Women for a Strong and Developed Nation – Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma

Jaipur : Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma emphasized the crucial role of women in building a strong and developed nation and state. He stated that without the participation of half the population, the journey of development remains incomplete. He highlighted that in Sanatan culture, there is a tradition of worshiping Goddess Durga for strength, Goddess Lakshmi for wealth, and Goddess Saraswati for wisdom. He further stated that the Shakti Vandan Mahotsav symbolizes the state’s commitment to women’s empowerment and its efforts to create a progressive and supportive environment for women.

The Chief Minister was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the “Shakti Vandan – A Celebration of India’s Self-Reliance” festival at Jawahar Kala Kendra on Saturday. He paid tribute to Lokmata Ahilyabai Holkar, acknowledging her lasting legacy in empowering women. She played a pivotal role in developing the local handloom industry in Maheshwar, introducing the world to the famous Maheshwari saree. He described her as a courageous warrior, an able administrator, and a devoted guardian of Sanatan culture. He reiterated that his government is dedicated to reviving and promoting Sanatan traditions, citing the recent decision to celebrate Rajasthan Day as per the Hindu lunar calendar (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada) instead of the Gregorian calendar.

Prime Minister’s Vision for Women’s Progress and Empowerment

The Chief Minister highlighted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi strongly believes in the progress and upliftment of women. He noted that this festival aligns with the “Vocal for Local” initiative, aimed at promoting local products, empowering women, and reviving traditional arts. Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, India has witnessed rapid development of religious and cultural heritage sites since 2014, restoring their glorious and divine essence. He assured that the state government is also committed to renovating and preserving religious sites in Rajasthan.

Making Women Self-Reliant – A Key Priority

The Chief Minister stressed that his “Double Engine” government is working swiftly towards women’s empowerment, healthcare, and social upliftment. He reaffirmed that making women self-reliant is a primary goal. Through the Rajeevika program, women associated with self-help groups are being provided with skill training and self-employment opportunities. The state government has also taken several initiatives to ensure market access for products made by these women. Recently, during Holi celebrations, the government purchased herbal gulal made by self-help group women to encourage their businesses.

Before the address, the Chief Minister lit the ceremonial lamp, inaugurating the three-day “Shakti Vandan – A Celebration of India’s Self-Reliance” festival. He also penned a message for women entrepreneurs in the Shakti Vandan book. Additionally, he visited the Devi Ahilyabai Holkar exhibition, organized by the Jaipur Municipal Corporation Greater, and praised the products showcased under the Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle (3R) initiative.

During the event, Jaipur Mayor Dr. Soumya Gurjar presented the statue of Ahilyabai Holkar to the Chief Minister. The program was attended by Jaipur MP Manju Sharma, public representatives, women entrepreneurs from self-help groups, and a large number of women.