The National Commission for Women (NCW) convened a two-day 'Shakti Samvaad' programme in Srinagar over the weekend of 17 May, bringing together Chairpersons, members, and member secretaries of State Women Commissions from 20 states to strengthen institutional coordination for women's empowerment across India.

Purpose and Participation

The programme was designed to build stronger operational links between the NCW and its state-level counterparts, with a focus on capacity building, policy dialogue, and coordinated responses to challenges facing women nationwide. Representatives deliberated on evolving legal frameworks, workplace dignity, and institutional mechanisms to address emerging concerns affecting women across different regions.

What NCW Chief Vijaya Rahatkar Said

NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, addressing the inaugural session, called for a shift in how women's commissions are perceived and function. 'Today, there is a need not only to create schemes and policies but also to build a responsive ecosystem. Such an ecosystem where the NCW becomes not just a platform for grievance redressal but a centre of trust, justice, and support,' she said.

Rahatkar added that Shakti Samvaad is 'not merely a program, it is a living symbol of the collective resolve of India's women power.' She stressed that while women are making significant contributions in governance, judiciary, science, media, and public life, ensuring their safety, dignity, and equal opportunities remains a shared institutional responsibility.

Minister Jitendra Singh on Women-Led Development

Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, attended as Chief Guest and highlighted the growing role of women in Jammu and Kashmir. 'The Women of Jammu and Kashmir are emerging as a strong force of progress and leadership. Our daughters are excelling in education, civil services, and innovation, and they will play a major role in shaping the future of a Developed India by 2047,' he said.

Singh underscored that science and technology are powerful enablers of social transformation, capable of expanding women's access to education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and digital opportunities. He called for coordinated institutional efforts and sustained policy support to advance women-led development.

Key Deliberations

Participants and domain experts shared insights on strengthening legal protections, improving grievance redressal timelines, and building institutional trust among women seeking support. The sessions also examined how digital tools can be leveraged to extend the reach of women's commissions to underserved communities.

Significance of the Srinagar Venue

Holding the programme in Srinagar — the first such multi-state women's commission conclave in Jammu and Kashmir — carries symbolic weight, reflecting the Centre's broader push to integrate the Union Territory into national policy dialogues. It also spotlights the progress of women in the region since the reorganisation of J&K in 2019. The next steps, including any follow-up action framework from the deliberations, are expected to be communicated by the NCW in the coming weeks.