New Delhi, March 27 Highlighting the increasing role of women in leadership, Union Minister Jitendra Singh stated that India must become accustomed to being led by women and that men should change their mindsets accordingly.
While addressing the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) Women 2047 program, Singh emphasised that the recognition of numerous women achievers reflects their growing presence across various sectors.
"We have to get used to being led by women," he said, adding, "What is more required is a change in the male mindset to be ready to be led by women."
He said "a whole lot of sensitively designed provisions" have been rolled out for women, including career schemes, entry programmes, scholarships, fellowships, and support for women's universities.
"In the last decade, we have a big career scheme now. We have made various entry programmes. We are also providing wide scholarship schemes to women at different levels of their education, as well as fellowships for those going abroad," he said.
Referring to an outreach programme for schoolgirls, he mentioned the initiative called 'Vigyan Jyoti,' aimed at girls from Class 9 to Class 12. He recounted an instance where a Class 8 student questioned why she had to wait a year to be eligible.
"A little girl said, 'I have a complaint. I'm in Class 8; why do I have to wait for one year?" he recalled, highlighting that such responses indicate the rising aspirations among young girls.
He stated that these initiatives have helped build confidence among women.
"If I have the talent and the focus, I can also do it," he said, describing this mindset as crucial for encouraging participation, particularly in startups.
Singh observed that women are increasingly taking on leadership roles across various sectors, supported by policy initiatives, access to technology, and expanding opportunities. He noted that a growing number of startups in India are women-led.
Citing data, Singh mentioned that India now has over two lakh startups, of which "almost 35 to 40 per cent are women-led", with nearly half coming from tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
On a lighter vein, Singh said, "Very soon you may have to start programmes to honour a few men by women, so that they don't feel disheartened or lonely."
He added that the "ultimate objective" would be achieved when occasions like Women's Day are no longer required. "And women themselves come forward to say that there is no need for it," he said.