Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Tuesday, 5 May inaugurated a seminar and exhibition on women empowerment at Kurukshetra University, jointly organised by the university and the Information, Public Relations and Languages Department. Addressing the gathering, Saini declared that the vision of 'Viksit Bharat 2047' can only be realised through the comprehensive development and empowerment of women.

Key Message from the Chief Minister

Chief Minister Saini described women as the cornerstone of nation-building, stating that a developed India cannot be achieved without empowering them. He emphasised the need to strengthen four key pillars of Viksit Bharat — women, farmers, youth, and the poor. "When women are empowered, the nation will scale new heights," he said at the event.

Drawing on the historical and spiritual significance of Kurukshetra, Saini invoked the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita, noting that Lord Krishna's guidance to Arjuna on the battlefield was a message against injustice. "The war of Mahabharata is not merely for power, but against injustice. The insult of a woman conveyed to society that remaining silent in the face of injustice is also unrighteous," he said, urging society to continue raising its voice against injustice.

Government Initiatives for Women's Progress

Saini highlighted several steps taken under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to advance women's empowerment across the country. He noted that colleges have been established within a radius of every 20 km to ensure girls do not have to travel far and can study in a safe environment — addressing a longstanding concern that kept many families from sending daughters away for education.

"Today, the results are visible — girls are studying freely, progressing, and fulfilling their dreams," Saini said. He also pointed to the role of self-help groups in boosting women's financial independence, with many women reportedly earning in lakhs, strengthening both their confidence and social standing.

On Farmers, Youth, and the Poor

Beyond women's empowerment, the Chief Minister underscored the importance of the other pillars of Viksit Bharat. He said strengthening farmers reinforces the foundation of the nation, while the youth should be encouraged to become job creators rather than job seekers. Empowering the poor, he added, remains a central priority in the government's nation-building agenda.

Seminar and Exhibition Highlights

Earlier in the programme, Chief Minister Saini visited the women empowerment exhibition set up at the Crush Hall and inaugurated the seminar at the auditorium by lighting the ceremonial lamp, followed by the singing of Vande Mataram. He also released the seminar souvenir prepared by the Public Relations Department and the souvenir of the art festival. The event brought together students, faculty, and officials to deliberate on pathways to inclusive national development with women at the centre.

As India marches toward its centenary of independence in 2047, events like this signal an increasing alignment between state governments and the Centre's vision of inclusive growth — with women's participation positioned as non-negotiable to that goal.