In Jaipur, Rajasthan, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma emphasized on Sunday that women are the cornerstone of society, and their empowerment is crucial for the nation's progress and development.
He called for greater awareness regarding women's rights, respect, and equal opportunities on International Women's Day, highlighting the importance of education, health, and self-reliance for women.
Addressing the state-level International Women's Day program held in Dhan Mandi, Hanumangarh, he praised the achievements of women like President Droupadi Murmu, Colonel Sophia Qureshi, and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh. He also recognized the contributions of international sportspersons such as PV Sindhu, Smriti Mandhana, Mirabai Chanu, Harmanpreet Kaur, Manu Bhaker, and Avani Lekhara.
Chief Minister Sharma highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's policies centered around women. He mentioned that over 12 crore toilets have been constructed under the Swachh Bharat Mission to ensure women's dignity and safety, and that over 11 crore LPG connections have been provided under the Ujjwala Yojana. Furthermore, he stated that over 70% of houses constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana are in the names of women or jointly owned by them.
He also emphasized the importance of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, which provides 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.
Chief Minister Sharma stated that the Rajasthan government is committed to empowering and protecting women. He announced that over 16 lakh "Lakhpati Didis" have been created, and that approximately 1.39 lakh self-help groups have received livelihood assistance worth Rs 679 crore. He also mentioned that Rs 6,876 crore has been provided under the Chief Minister’s Ekal Nari Samman Pension Scheme to over 19 lakh women pensioners. Similarly, Rs 101 crore has been allocated for the marriage of over 27,000 girls under the Chief Minister’s Kanyadaan Scheme.
Chief Minister Sharma highlighted that the Lado Protsahan Yojana is promoting a positive outlook towards the health and education of girl children. He explained that financial assistance of Rs 1.5 lakh is provided in seven installments, benefiting over six lakh girls. He also mentioned that schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and Maa Voucher Scheme are also playing a significant role in women's welfare.
He added that, due to the state government's effective efforts, the average time for investigating cases of crimes against women has decreased from 128 days in 2020 to 52 days, and the number of such cases has declined by about 10% compared to 2023.
Chief Minister Sharma emphasized that the state government is ensuring balanced development across all regions. He mentioned that the additional Rs 150 bonus on the MSP of wheat announced in the 2026 state budget will particularly benefit farmers in the Sri Ganganagar–Hanumangarh region. He also highlighted the reconstruction of the Indira Gandhi Canal Project (IGNP), the Ganga Canal, and the development of the Ferozepur feeder, which will further strengthen irrigation facilities. He also mentioned that Rs 500 crore has been allocated for canal construction in Hanumangarh.
Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma, the state government is ensuring that women directly benefit from welfare schemes through DBT.
She added that the 10% increase in the honorarium for Anganwadi workers, helpers, and assistants will further strengthen women's empowerment.
Food and Civil Supplies Minister Sumit Godara stated that the reduction in petrol and diesel prices has provided significant relief to the people of Sri Ganganagar and Hanumangarh districts.
He added that the provision of Rs 5,000 crore for electricity supply and canal water availability will benefit farmers.
During the program, Chief Minister Sharma laid the foundation stone and inaugurated development projects worth more than Rs 1,000 crore in Hanumangarh. He also launched the Lado Protsahan Yojana portal and transferred funds to beneficiaries of the Lado Protsahan Yojana, Chief Minister’s Maternity Nutrition Scheme, and the Girl Child Distance Education Scheme through DBT.
Symbolic cheques were also distributed to beneficiaries under the PM SVANidhi Yojana, Chief Minister’s Nari Shakti Udyam Protsahan Yojana, and self-help groups receiving loans. The Saathin Guide was digitally launched, and awards under the Panna Dhai Suraksha and Samman Yojana were also presented. Earlier, the Chief Minister shared information about various schemes and programmes being implemented by the state government for women's welfare and empowerment.
