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Sunday, July 6, 2025 1:20 AM

Women Empowerment

Government Launches Gender Budgeting Knowledge Hub to Advance Inclusive Policy Making

In a major push towards gender-responsive governance, the Central government on Thursday launched the Gender Budgeting Knowledge Hub, a digital platform aimed at equipping policymakers with essential data, tools, and resources to promote gender-inclusive budgeting practices. The initiative was formally unveiled by Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi, during a national consultation event held in the capital. The day-long gathering witnessed the participation of officials from 45 Central ministries and departments, 20 state governments, and global organisations including UN Women and the Asian Development Bank. According to the ministry, the new portal will function as a centralized knowledge-sharing space, hosting gender-disaggregated data, policy briefs, and case studies highlighting effective gender budgeting practices. “As India moves toward its development vision of Viksit Bharat @2047, gender-sensitive budgeting will play a critical role in achieving inclusive and balanced growth,” the ministry said in its statement. The newly launched Knowledge Hub will serve as a centralised digital repository for gender-disaggregated data, policy briefs, research papers, and best practices from across the country. It is designed to support evidence-based policymaking and foster dialogue between stakeholders at both Central and state levels. With India advancing rapidly on multiple developmental fronts, the Gender Budgeting Knowledge Hub is expected to play a pivotal role in embedding inclusivity into the nation’s financial and governance frameworks. Source: PIB

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PM Modi Chairs Day-Long Conclave with NDA CMs, Focuses on Good Governance and Development Synergies

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a comprehensive conclave in New Delhi, bringing together Chief Ministers and Deputy Chief Ministers from all 20 National Democratic Alliance (NDA)-governed states. The high-level meeting centred on strategies to accelerate development and ensure the effective delivery of governance through the “double-engine” model. Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of enhancing coordination and synergy across sectors such as healthcare, sanitation, agriculture, youth empowerment, and technology. He also encouraged states to intensify their efforts in delivering public services and creating impactful governance outcomes. In a post on social media, PM Modi highlighted the extensive discussions held during the conclave, which included sharing of successful models and initiatives from various states. These ranged from water conservation and grievance redressal mechanisms to administrative reforms, women empowerment, sports, and education. Organised by the BJP’s Good Governance Department, the conclave saw participation from 20 Chief Ministers and 18 Deputy Chief Ministers. Senior BJP leaders including Party President JP Nadda, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also took part in the day-long discussions. Speaking to the media after the meeting, BJP President JP Nadda stated that two key resolutions were adopted. The first praised the Indian armed forces for their bravery under Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror camps across the border. The second resolution reaffirmed the party’s stance on caste-based policies, clarifying that the BJP prioritises social integration and mainstreaming of backward communities without engaging in caste-based politics. The session also featured detailed presentations by the states showcasing their governance achievements. Additionally, leaders discussed preparations for major upcoming milestones, including the NDA government’s first anniversary on June 9, the 10th International Day of Yoga, and the 50th year since the declaration of the Emergency in 1975. The conclave reinforced the NDA’s collective commitment to good governance, innovation, and inclusive development across the nation. Source: newsonair  

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Vedanta Sets Ambitious Gender Inclusion Goal: Aims for 30% Women Workforce by 2030

In a significant move towards gender parity, Vedanta has unveiled its vision to boost the participation of women in its workforce to 30% by the year 2030. This bold initiative underscores the company’s determination to lead change in India’s male-dominated metals and mining sector. Currently, women make up 21% of Vedanta’s total workforce, with an impressive 28% representation in leadership roles—well above the global average of 8% for leadership in this sector, as cited by the World Bank. Madhu Srivastava, Chief Human Resources Officer at Vedanta, remarked, “The metals and mining industry has historically resisted gender diversity. We are determined to reshape that legacy. Inclusion must be foundational, not an afterthought. Our focus is not only on representation but also on enabling women to be key drivers of change.” Vedanta’s approach to inclusion goes far beyond hiring quotas. The company is actively working to eliminate both societal and organizational barriers that hinder women’s advancement—especially for those balancing careers with family life. Support systems include hybrid working models, flexible scheduling, a 12-month maternity sabbatical, spouse-hiring opportunities, and integrated township facilities such as crèches, schools, hospitals, and recreational zones to support women at all life stages. Real-world examples from Vedanta’s operations showcase the tangible outcomes of this commitment. At its aluminium smelter in Jharsuguda, Odisha—home to the world’s largest aluminium potline—operations are managed entirely by women, reflecting a deliberate strategy to put women at the core of innovation and operational excellence. Dr. Kavita Bhardwaj, Deputy CEO of Hindmetal Exploration, exemplifies this progress. She leads critical mineral exploration in India while successfully balancing her professional and personal roles, attributing her success to Vedanta’s supportive and empowering environment. Further illustrating its inclusive ethos, Vedanta has trained all-women underground mine rescue squads at Rajpura Dariba and Rampura Agucha, equipping them with skills in CPR, fire response, and SCBA operations. Additionally, the company’s all-women security force, Durga Vahini, comprised of recruits from rural Rajasthan, now safeguards 38 oil fields—marking a groundbreaking advancement in both industrial safety and rural women’s empowerment. With this initiative, Vedanta is not only transforming its own culture but also setting a new benchmark for gender diversity in heavy industries across India. Source: Economic Times  

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Microsoft, Gates Foundation Partner with Maharashtra Government for Digital Governance

Microsoft and the Gates Foundation have joined forces with the Maharashtra government to establish a digital governance model, focusing on innovation, women empowerment, and sustainable energy. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, along with representatives from the Gates Foundation, met Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss initiatives, including setting up an Innovation City in Navi Mumbai and empowering 25 lakh women to become self-employed. As part of the collaboration, the Gates Foundation will provide technical and financial support, with Gates assuring the launch of a digital governance pilot project in Gadchiroli district. Additionally, the Foundation will partner with social, government, and corporate organizations to drive sustainable energy initiatives in Maharashtra. Gates emphasized the state’s potential for global scalability, especially in helping farmers access electricity during the day. A key highlight of the discussion was the Lakhpati Didi initiative, which aims to transform 25 lakh women into millionaires. Fadnavis also briefed Gates on Maharashtra’s flagship Ladki Bahin Yojana, under which eligible women will receive ₹1,500 per month through direct benefit transfer (DBT). Gates expressed strong support for digitizing women’s financial transactions, reinforcing his commitment to economic empowerment and financial inclusion. Source: Hindustan Times

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Himachal CM Sukhu Announces Rs. 1000 for Girl Students, Focuses on Education Reform on Balika Diwas

Dharamshala, January 25: Marking the occasion of Balika Diwas, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu visited the Government Girls Senior Secondary School in Dharamshala and announced a financial incentive of Rs. 1000 for each of the 351 girl students enrolled at the school. The move underscores the state government’s commitment to empowering girls and enhancing the education system. Addressing the students, CM Sukhu shared his personal experience as a government school student and acknowledged the confidence gap often faced by students from such institutions. He assured that the government is working diligently to bridge this gap, promising that no child in the state would be deprived of quality education. He also announced that the government has taken several measures, including filling vacant teaching posts, promoting deputy directors to address long-pending issues, and organizing exposure visits for both teachers and students. Furthermore, 50 meritorious students will soon be sent abroad as part of an initiative to motivate young minds and broaden their perspectives. Education Minister Rohit Thakur reiterated the government’s dedication to improving education quality across the state. Other dignitaries, including Agriculture Minister Professor Chander Kumar, AYUSH Minister Yadvinder Goma, and Secretary Education Rakesh Kanwar, were present during the event. The Chief Minister also visited the Government Senior Secondary School (Boys) in Dharamshala to review available facilities and address the needs of the students. This initiative reflects the state’s mission to empower young girls and reform the education sector, fostering an environment of growth and opportunity for future generations. Source: ANI

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Maharashtra’s Free Education Scheme Spurs 44,198-Girl Enrollment Boost

The Maharashtra government’s free education scheme has achieved a transformative milestone, with girl admissions in degree, diploma, and postgraduate courses increasing by a staggering 44,198 in the academic year 2024–25. Officials have hailed the rise as “phenomenal,” reflecting the scheme’s success in making education more accessible to girls from economically weaker backgrounds. Pooja Kamble, the daughter of an auto driver and now an MBA student in Pimpri, credits the scheme for enabling her to advance her career. “The free education scheme allowed me to pursue my MBA after working for two years post-graduation. This degree will help me grow in my career,” Kamble shared. Implemented by the higher and technical education department earlier this year, the initiative covers girls from families with an annual income of up to ₹8 lakh. It includes professional courses like engineering, law, pharmacy, and management. According to data from the state CET cell, girls secured 173,434 out of 597,277 seats in 2024–25, a significant increase from last year’s 129,263 out of 414,713. The surge is most notable in MBA, law, engineering, and technology courses. Experts have praised the scheme while acknowledging areas for improvement. Professor Ramdas Jhol of Dattakala Educational Institute remarked, “The scheme has significantly increased girls’ enrollment, despite initial confusion in its rollout. With revisions, we expect even better outcomes next year.” Former Higher Education Minister Chandrakant Patil, under whose tenure the scheme was introduced, expressed pride in the results. “This initiative aligns with Maharashtra’s legacy of championing women’s education, inspired by Savitribai Phule. It’s a proud moment to see our daughters achieving new milestones,” he stated. The scheme is expected to further reshape Maharashtra’s educational landscape, encouraging more girls to pursue technical and professional fields, fostering empowerment and opportunity. Source: Hindustan Times Photo Credit: Hindustan Times

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Maharashtra Govt Announces Free Higher Education for EWS, SEBC, OBC Girls in State

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, the Maharashtra government announced on Monday that higher education for girls from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS), Socially and Economically Backward Classes (SEBC), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs) will be made free. According to officials, this initiative is part of a broader women-focused policy. The decision, which also includes waiving tuition and examination fees for orphaned students regardless of gender, was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The policy change was formalized through a government resolution (GR). Rs 906 Crore Aid for Female Students The decision will be implemented from the academic year 2024-25 and is expected to cost Rs 906 crore. A GR stated that female students seeking admission to recognized vocational courses through the Centralised Admission Process in government colleges, aided private colleges, semi-aided private colleges, non-aided colleges, polytechnic, and autonomous government universities, and open universities can avail the facility. Wide Range of Courses Covered, Specific Eligibility Criteria Outlined These include courses run by departments such as higher and technical education, medicine, pharmacy, agriculture, animal husbandry, pisciculture, and dairy development. However, students from private autonomous universities/self-funded universities, and those enrolling through management and institutional quotas will not be eligible for the scheme. The GR said female students whose annual family income is Rs 8 lakh or less and who are from EWS, SEBC, and OBC are eligible for the fee waiver. New admissions as well as students currently pursuing their degrees will also be eligible for the scheme. Opposition Questions Funding for New Schemes In the state budget, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar announced several initiatives including Mukhyamantri Annapoorna Yojana (aimed at giving three free cylinders to women), Mukhyamantri Yuva Karyaprashikshan Yojana, Mukhyamantri Krishi Pump Yojana, Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana (eligible women in the age group 21 to 60 years will get a monthly allowance of Rs 1,500), and a scheme to provide free education to women. The opposition has questioned the source of funding for these schemes and claimed they are aimed to woo women voters ahead of the state assembly polls. However, Chief Minister Shinde has stressed that monetary provisions have been made for the schemes and the initiatives will be permanent.

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