Bengaluru, Dec 4 (NationPress) Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has declared that September 13 will officially be recognized as Women Employees' Day. This initiative is aimed at appreciating the crucial role of women within the state government's operations.

This announcement was made at a women's conference held in Bengaluru by the All Karnataka State Government Women Employees' Association.

The Chief Minister also revealed that the government will implement a policy granting one day of paid menstrual leave each month to all female employees. Furthermore, he mentioned that discussions have taken place with the Minister for Women and Child Welfare regarding the allocation of office space at Bal Bhavan for the association's activities.

Reiterating the announcement, Siddaramaiah confirmed that September 13 will be officially designated as Women Employees' Day.

The Chief Minister acknowledged that women are serving in government roles alongside men and are actively contributing across various sectors. He emphasized the state's commitment to abolishing gender discrimination and ensuring equal treatment for everyone.

Reflecting on historical barriers to education for women, he stated that with the onset of the Constitution, equal rights, including the right to education, have been established.

At the time of India's Independence, the literacy rate was merely between 10 to 12 percent, which has impressively increased to around 78 percent today.

Siddaramaiah emphasized that women play a pivotal role in shaping their children's character and thoughts, advocating for the promotion of rational and scientific mentalities. He stressed the importance of raising awareness among children about superstitions and blind beliefs.

He called upon women to embrace rationality and scientific thinking and actively work to dispel superstitions and blind beliefs as much as possible.

Teaching these values to children is essential for building a healthy, equal, and progressive society, he added, affirming that such principles are enshrined in the Constitution.

Since taking office, Siddaramaiah has mandated that all schools and colleges read the Preamble of the Constitution.

He noted that society comprises various castes and religions, and children should never be subjected to caste-based discrimination. Education must work towards dismantling caste barriers, he insisted.

Recognizing that even educated individuals, including doctors and scientists, may hold superstitions, he reiterated the necessity of protecting children from such beliefs. Both women and children, he stated, should uphold secular and Constitutional values.

The government aims to empower women socially and economically. Currently, 3.5 crore women are benefiting from free bus travel under the Shakti scheme, which he described as a form of social capital, as the savings generated are being utilized for children's education and other household responsibilities.

Additionally, he mentioned that his administration has acted on the recommendations of the Sixth and Seventh Pay Commissions. Quoting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, he stated that for the nation to genuinely enjoy the fruits of freedom, women must be socially and economically empowered. He expressed hope that these initiatives would lead to enhanced government efficiency.