‘Shakti Samvaad’ Marks India’s Commitment to Women-Led Leadership, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Unveils Empowerment Roadmap

New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the two-day ‘Shakti Samvaad: Capacity Building and Training’ program organized by the National Commission for Women (NCW) at Bharat Mandapam on Thursday. Addressing chairpersons, members, and officials of women’s commissions from across India, CM Gupta emphasized women’s empowerment, safety, economic self-reliance, and leadership roles in decision-making. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar, Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Women and Child Development B. Radhika Chakravarti, and other commission members were also present.

Commending the initiative for promoting legal awareness, grievance redressal, policy consultation, and capacity building, CM Gupta said such programs instill courage and confidence in millions of daughters across the country. She urged collective efforts focusing on three key priorities: women’s safety and dignity, economic empowerment, and participation in decision-making and leadership.

Night-Shift Work and Crèche Facilities for Working Women
Highlighting Delhi government’s initiatives, the CM announced that women will now be permitted to work night shifts under strict safety norms. In addition, 500 crèche centers (‘Palna Kendra’) have been set up for children of working mothers, ensuring they can work without worry.

Financial Empowerment with Loans up to ₹10 Crore
For economic self-reliance, the government has approved loans of up to ₹10 crore without collateral to enable women to start and expand their businesses. To enhance safety, 10,000 advanced surveillance cameras and 1 lakh smart sensor LED lights are being installed across the city. Additionally, 53 new judicial posts have been sanctioned to facilitate the creation of fast-track special courts for speedy justice.

CM Gupta emphasized that ‘Shakti Samvaad’ is not merely a theme but a platform for collective dialogue, shaping the nation’s future through women’s collective strength. She noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, India has moved beyond women’s empowerment to an era of women-led governance and decision-making.

Citing examples from the Republic Day parade, the armed forces, and the Parliament, CM Gupta highlighted the growing decisive role of women in India, including courageous performances in uniform and women from tribal communities reaching the country’s highest offices.

From ‘Beti Bachao’ to ‘Beti Badhhao’
The CM reflected on the country’s journey from ‘Beti Bachao’ to ‘Beti Padhao’ and now ‘Beti Badhhao’, emphasizing the need to expand opportunities for daughters to pursue their dreams. She described the NCW as a trusted center where women in distress first seek help, and stressed the collective responsibility of ensuring timely justice, support, and safety.

Acknowledging Women Leaders from Remote Regions
CM Gupta also appreciated the dedication and spirit of women commission heads from remote areas, especially the North-Eastern states, and paid tribute to the 34-year journey of the NCW. She encouraged women to move beyond advising to actively making decisions and implementing them, which she termed the true essence of empowerment.

Concluding her address, CM Gupta called on all women commission chairpersons and members to continue their commitment to supporting half the population, ensuring safe and dignified lives, and strengthening women’s decisive role in nation-building.