Double-Engine Government Committed to Women’s Dignity and Empowerment, Says Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur. In the special session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly on late Thursday evening, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, while presenting a resolution in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, stated that ensuring one-third reservation for women in Parliament and all State Assemblies is a crucial step towards their dignity, holistic development, and empowerment. He said that this initiative will not only strengthen women’s participation in democratic institutions but also provide new momentum towards equal opportunities and balanced representation in society. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that such efforts will empower half of the country’s population with a stronger role in decision-making, making development more inclusive and effective.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the sacred land of Chhattisgarh is the land of Mata Shabari, Maa Danteshwari, and Maa Mahamaya, where women have always been revered as embodiments of strength. He said that in Indian culture, women are not only worthy of respect but are the foundation of creation and power. The same Shakti divine power that we worship during Navratri exists in society in the form of motherhood.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the verse from our scriptures, “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Matru-Roopena Sansthita…,” is not merely a shloka but the essence of Indian philosophy. He noted that personalities like Bhakt Mata Karma, Teejan Bai, and Usha Barle from Chhattisgarh have taken the identity of the state to national and international levels through their talent and dedication. He also described the contributions of legendary Rani Lakshmibai, Rani Durgavati, and Avanti Bai as sources of inspiration. In modern times, women like Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams have enhanced the country’s pride on the global stage.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that expanding women’s participation and representation in the democratic system is essential for the overall development of society. He added that, considering the expanding scope of responsibilities of public representatives and population growth, it is important to periodically review and bring systemic reforms and balance, so that governance becomes more effective and responsive to public needs.
He said that in recent years, several important initiatives have been undertaken in the country to promote women’s dignity, health, safety, and economic empowerment. Through schemes in areas such as sanitation, healthcare, financial inclusion, education, and security, positive changes have been observed in the standard of living of women. These efforts have played a significant role in strengthening women’s dignity and self-reliance.
The Chief Minister stated that special priority is being given to women’s empowerment in Chhattisgarh. The year 2026 is being celebrated as “Mahtari Gaurav Varsh,” aimed at honoring the contribution of Matra Shakti- maternal strength and promoting their holistic development. He informed that through various schemes, women are being provided financial assistance, self-employment opportunities, and social security.
He said that special efforts are being made to ensure that women in remote and challenging areas also benefit from government schemes. This has not only improved their standard of living but has also helped them integrate more strongly into the mainstream of society.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that efforts are being made to make women self-reliant through schemes related to housing, drinking water, livelihoods, and self-employment. A large number of women are becoming economically empowered through self-help groups and other activities, indicating positive social transformation.
