Budget 2024: India hopes to tap the gender dividend with focus on Nari Shakti

The President emphasised the government's efforts to expand the role of women across various domains, from water and land to the skies and space. Acknowledging the significance of economic independence for women, the President outlined the relentless efforts made to enhance women's economic participation.

A few days before the Budget, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways emphasised pay parity and pushed for ensuring basic amenities like maternity and miscarriage leaves for women working in highway construction.

Furthermore, the EPFO has made a noteworthy amendment to its rules, allowing women government employees to also have children as nominees instead of just their spouses. This shift reflects a progressive approach towards recognising diverse family structures. 

President Murmu also highlighted the key initiatives taken in the direction of women empowerment, including the engagement of around 100 million women in Self-Help Groups, which have received bank loans totalling ₹8 lakh crore and financial assistance worth ₹40 thousand crore.

The government is actively implementing a campaign with the ambitious goal of creating 20 million 'Lakhpati Didis.' As part of the NAMO Drone Didi scheme, 15 thousand drones are being provided to groups, furthering technological empowerment.

The President underscored the positive impact of extending maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks, benefiting lakhs of women across the country. Landmark decisions, such as granting permanent commissions to women in the Armed Forces and admitting women cadets to Sainik Schools and the National Defence Academy, mark significant strides towards gender inclusivity. Women now serve as fighter pilots and command naval ships, breaking barriers and setting new precedents.

Highlighting the success of the Mudra Yojana, the President revealed that out of more than 460 million loans extended, over 310 million were granted to women. This scheme has empowered countless women to become self-employed, contributing to their economic independence.

As India awaits the Budget 2024, the focus on women's empowerment remains at the forefront, reflecting a commitment to harness the untapped potential of the nation's female population. The Budget is anticipated to further bolster initiatives aimed at economic inclusivity and gender parity.