As India moves towards introducing the Women Reservation Bill, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a national-level ‘Nari Shakti Vandan Sammelan’ at Vigyan Bhawan on Monday.
Addressing the gathering, PM Modi described the move as “one of the most important decisions of the 21st century". He said the step is dedicated to the power and respect of women and added that Parliament is close to creating a new chapter in the country’s history.
“India stands united on the Women’s Reservation Bill. The bill has come into being after 40 years. It must be implemented by 2029. This is one of the most important decisions of the 21st century," said PM Modi.
“Opposition, in particular, strongly emphasised need to enforce women’s quota law by 2029. It’s our effort and priority that this time amendment bill is passed through dialogue, cooperation and participation," he added.
He also mentioned that former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar was present at the event. Congratulating people, PM Modi said the decision marks the beginning of a new era and noted that every political party has contributed in its own way to this effort. He added that the country stands united on the issue of women’s quota.
“Numerous studies have shown that when women’s participation in the decision-making process increases, it also leads to greater sensitivity in the system… I believe that the biggest factor in the success of the Jal Jeevan Mission is the significantly increased role of women’s participation at the Panchayat level. The millions of women who have been working and leading in our local bodies and institutions for so many years have extensive and rich experience at the grassroots level. They are now ready and willing to take on an even greater role," PM Modi added while backing the bill.
PM Modi said the decision reflects a vision of an egalitarian India, where social justice becomes a natural part of governance and decision-making. He noted that the time has come to end decades of waiting and highlighted key dates between April 16 and 18 in this context.
PM Modi said that maternity leave for mothers have now been inceased to 26 weeks.
“To ensure that women’s careers are not affected, we have extended maternity leave to 26 weeks. Even in the world’s most developed countries, such a facility is not available. When I tell them this, they are surprised. You may remember that a few years ago, the country launched the Skill India Mission. We also started vocational training programs," he added.
He highlighted the growing role of women in India’s political and social life, saying their participation – from the freedom struggle to today’s leadership roles – has been crucial in shaping the nation. He noted that women already hold key positions such as President and Finance Minister, and over 1.4 million women are active in local governance, with nearly 50% representation in Panchayats in many states.
PM Modi said giving women greater representation in Parliament and Assemblies will help realise their aspirations, adding that India’s progress in women’s participation has impressed global leaders.
Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi described the moment as significant, calling it a blend of determination, dedication and success. She said the Nari Shakti Vandan Act reflects the strength of women and represents their voices, experiences and contributions.
She also thanked the Prime Minister on behalf of the country for initiating the move, noting that many women continue to fulfil family responsibilities with commitment and dedication.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta expressed strong support for the bill. She said women across the country stand with the government on this step and thanked Modi for introducing it in Parliament.
Ending her remarks with a short poetic line, she suggested that some leaders shape themselves with time, while others change the course of time itself.
