Laxmi Rajwada
Minister of Women and Child Development and Social Welfare
There have been some women in the history of India whose lives became an ideal for generations to come. One of them is Rajmata Ahilyabai Holkar, on whose 300th birth anniversary we are remembering her with reverence and pride.
On this historic occasion, I pay my respectful homage to her and would like to discuss the women empowerment schemes of the Chhattisgarh government while reiterating her ideals in today’s social perspective. Ahilyabai Holkar: An idol of sacrifice, service and justice
Queen Ahilyabai Holkar’s life was full of struggles, but she never gave up. As a young widow, she not only took care of herself, but also ran the entire Malwa state efficiently. She was an example of administration, religion, social harmony and charity.
She protected Indian culture and faith by doing reconstruction work at places like Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Somnath Temple, Ayodhya, Badrinath, Dwarka. Her work is proof that if women get opportunities and rights, they can give direction to both society and nation.Resolve of Chhattisgarh Government: Every woman should become capable
The Chhattisgarh Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, is giving top priority to women empowerment, following in the footsteps of Ahilyabai Holkar. Mahtari Vandan Yojana – The Chhattisgarh Government has launched Mahtari Vandan Yojana with the aim of promoting economic empowerment and social respect of women. Under this scheme, financial assistance of Rs 1,000 per month is being provided to eligible married, widowed, divorced and abandoned women, which is helping them to become self-reliant. So far, assistance amount of Rs 9788.78 crore has been provided to about 70 lakh women in 15 installments.Hila Swavalamban Yojana – The state government has started self-employment schemes with the aim of strengthening women self-help groups and has taken concrete initiative of skill training program. With these initiatives, lakhs of women are now becoming financially self-reliant. Measures like women helpline 181, one stop center, fast track court, legal aid have been ensured for the safety and justice of women so that every woman gets justice and can live a fear-free life.
Our goal: Empowered, safe and respected women society
To realize the society that Rani Ahilyabai Holkar ji had envisioned, we have to work on the four pillars of education, health, safety and respect. The Chhattisgarh government is constantly working in this direction, so that every girl can realize her dream and every woman can play a leadership role in the society. Ahilyabai Holkar ji’s birth anniversary is not just a remembrance, but an occasion for resolution. The resolution is that we will build a strong and harmonious society by following the path shown by her. I appeal to all the people of the state to participate in this campaign and contribute towards transforming women power into national power. Only when women are empowered, the resolution of developed India and developed Chhattisgarh will be realized.
