New Delhi [India], March 8: In a remarkable move showcasing his unwavering commitment to women’s empowerment, Prime Minister Narendra Modi handed over his social media accounts to six extraordinary women from across India on International Women’s Day. This innovative initiative gave these women a platform to share their incredible journeys, achievements, and the challenges they’ve overcome, while also inspiring others to pursue their passions and dreams.
The women featured in this initiative come from diverse regions of India, including Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Bihar, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh, each representing different sectors such as sports, rural entrepreneurship, science, and technology.
1. Vaishali Rameshbabu
A Chess Grandmaster, Vaishali has been competing at the highest level since the age of six. She was thrilled to take over PM Modi’s social media handle on International Women’s Day to share her experiences. “I feel very proud to be representing our beloved country in many tournaments. Chess has been a learning, thrilling, and rewarding journey for me, and I look forward to contributing more to the sport I love,” she wrote, emphasizing the importance of supporting women in sports.
2. Anita Devi
Known as the “Mushroom Lady of Bihar,” Anita Devi overcame poverty and adversity to establish the Madhopur Farmers Producers Company in 2016. Her work in mushroom cultivation has not only empowered herself but also created job opportunities for hundreds of rural women. “I have not only made my path easier but also helped hundreds of women become self-reliant,” Anita shared, showcasing how entrepreneurship can uplift entire communities.
3. Elina Mishra & Shilpi Soni
These two pioneering scientists work in the fields of nuclear technology and space science. Elina Mishra, a nuclear scientist at Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), and Shilpi Soni, a space scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), highlighted the growing opportunities for women in India’s scientific community. “India is the most vibrant place for science, and we call upon more women to pursue it,” they shared, emphasizing the increasing participation of women in fields traditionally dominated by men.
4. Ajaita Shah
As the Founder and CEO of Frontier Markets, Ajaita Shah has been transforming rural entrepreneurship by empowering over 35,000 women entrepreneurs. Her initiative helps rural women become self-reliant business owners and last-mile distributors of essential goods and services. “A financially empowered woman is a confident decision-maker, independent thinker, and the maker of modern India,” Ajaita said, emphasizing how rural women are driving economic growth in India.
5. Dr. Anjlee Agarwal
Dr. Agarwal, a leading advocate for universal accessibility, is the founder of Samarthyam Centre for Universal Accessibility. With over three decades of experience, Dr. Agarwal has worked tirelessly to ensure inclusive mobility and barrier-free infrastructure, making schools and public spaces more accessible for people with disabilities. “Let us build on the recent gains and ensure that every woman, every individual, can navigate their life with dignity and independence,” she said, calling for a more inclusive society.
Each of these remarkable women exemplifies the essence of Nari Shakti (women’s power), proving that women are not only participants but also pioneers shaping the future of India. Their efforts are a testament to the fact that Indian women are breaking barriers and creating lasting change in various sectors, contributing significantly to the vision of a Viksit Bharat (developed India).