Women are strong, no less than others: President Murmu

President Droupadi Murmu on Sunday lauded women's strength and achievements, and exhorted them to realise their full potential, saying, "We are no lesser beings."

Addressing an event organised by the Ministry of Women and Child Development to mark the International Women's Day, the President said the occasion was not only to honour women's achievements but also to reaffirm the nation's commitment to their empowerment.

Murmu highlighted women's pioneering roles in education, administration, judiciary, armed forces, medicine, science, technology, arts, entrepreneurship and sports.

She noted that rural women are becoming economically self-reliant through self-help groups and providing leadership in village development, while women continue to emerge as leaders in employment, startups, and the corporate sector.

"With opportunity and support, women can excel in every sphere," she said, adding, "Mahilao mei dam hai, hum kisi se kam nahi. Hum mei bhi dam hai (Women are powerful,” we are no less than others. We, too, have strength)."

The president underscored that while many achievements have been made, several obstacles still exist in ensuring women's equal participation in society. "These challenges cannot be resolved by law alone. It is necessary to change our mindset," she said.

She emphasised that parents must not discriminate between daughters and sons at home. She said mothers-in-law should not discriminate between their own daughters and daughters-in-law, and daughters-in-law should be treated as daughters.

"True equality begins with recognising every woman as a daughter, irrespective of her role in the family," she added.

She congratulated the Ministry of Women and Child Development for organising the 'Shakti Walk - SheLeadsBharat' on Sunday as part of the International Women's Day celebrations. The event featured a walk from India Gate to Vijay Chowk.

Murmu also lauded the dedication of women from across the country who participated in the event, highlighting their commitment to India's progress and the empowerment of women nationwide.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday conveyed greetings to all women on the occasion of International Women's Day, and said the achievements of India's 'Nari Shakti' are a source of pride.

He said empowerment of women is at the core of his government's various schemes and initiatives and it remains committed to creating opportunities that enable every woman to realise her full potential and contribute to India's journey of development.

"On International Women's Day, I extend my greetings to all our Nari Shakti. Across every field, women are shaping India's progress with determination, creativity and unmatched zeal. Their achievements inspire our nation and strengthen our collective resolve to build a Viksit Bharat," he said in a message.

Modi said as India progresses further, the aspirations and contributions of women will continue to guide the country's collective journey towards a strong and prosperous nation.

"The achievements of India's Nari Shakti are a source of pride and a powerful reminder of the transformative role in nation building," he added.