To mark International Women's Day, President Droupadi Murmu wished the nation while addressing the status of women in decision-making positions in India. While commending the progress made by women in the country, the President noted that as one moves up the hierarchy, the representation of women dwindles.
President Murmu shared an article titled "Every Woman's Story My Story!" that discussed the indomitable spirit of Indian women. In the article, she lauded the progress made by women in the 21st century, despite no woman becoming the head of state or government in many countries. President Murmu considers her election as the President of India, the world's largest democracy, to be a story of women's empowerment.
"Prejudices and customs not favourable to women are being done away with either through legislation or through awareness," she tweeted.
The President acknowledged the significant contribution of countless women to nation-building in their chosen fields. She noted that there is a good representation of women in decision-making institutions at the grassroots level. "We have a good representation of women in decision-making institutions at the grassroots level. But as we move upwards, the number of females gradually decreases," she was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.
President Murmu believes that there is a need to change the societal mindset that promotes gender inequality. She suggested that to build a peaceful and prosperous society, "we must understand and break free from ingrained prejudices based on gender inequality". She also stated that women should become equal partners in the progress of humanity for the world to be a happier place.
The President emphasized that the "Amrit Kaal" until India's centenary of independence is the time of young women. She urged everyone to make a difference in their families, neighbourhoods, or workplaces. Any change that puts a smile on a child's face or increases her chances of getting ahead in life is worth making, according to President Murmu.