Bharat’s Progress and Women’s Prowess

India, that is ‘Bharat’, has created history with the success of ‘Chandrayaan 3’. It became the first country to do a soft landing on the Lunar South Pole. The beauty of this achievement is its cost-effectiveness and precise landing timings. Within days of the successful Moon mission, ISRO launched Bharat’s first observation mission to the Sun, named, ‘Aditya-L1’, which is performing as planned. It was heartening to see the contribution of many women scientists in the success of Chandrayaan-3 and Aditya-L1. The dedication and expertise of women scientists propelled the mission forward and significantly contributed to its success. Their involvement not only underscores gender equality and inclusivity but also showcases the remarkable talent and capabilities of women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Bharat showed its capability and acumen by successfully organising the G20 Summit under its presidency with hundred per cent consensus on all developmental and geo-political issues, running into 38 paragraphs. G20’s theme was based on Vasudhaiv Kutumbakkam – One Earth – One Family – One Future. The importance of the G20 Summit can be understood from the fact that collectively, these countries account for 85 per cent of global gross domestic product, over 75 per cent of global trade and two-thirds of the globe’s entire population. With 9 invitee countries, 27 member countries of the European Union and 55 member countries of the African Union, this representation is still wider. The feather on Bharat’s cap was when it successfully convinced the Group’s member countries to admit the African Union as a permanent member, making the Group of 20 (G20) now G21. Bharat raised its status by becoming a voice for the developing nations of the Global South.

The New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration broadly focuses on the following five key areas:

• Strong, Sustainable, Balanced and Inclusive Growth
• Accelerating Progress on Sustainable Development Goals
• Green Development Pact for a Sustainable Future
• Multilateral Institutions for the 21st Century
• Reinvigorating Multilateralism

Bharat grabbed the opportunity to showcase its great heritage and culture to the participants of various working group meetings of G20 throughout the year. It organised over 200 meetings at 50 different locations, which is, perhaps, a unique feature in the history of any G20 presidency. It not only made G20 popular across the nation but also won the hearts of the delegates. The spectacular success of the G20 Summit and its outcomes have been hailed by world leaders and media alike.

It is heartening to note that Bharat launched seven state-of-the-art stealth frigates in just four years from 2019–2023. Bharat stands 4th globally in Renewal Energy Installed Capacity (including Large Hydro), 4th in Wind Power and 4th in Solar Power capacity. Thus, Bharat is shining in all Panchmahabhuta, namely, Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space.

In the heart of our national capital, New Delhi, stands a new symbol of our democracy and progress — the new Parliament House of India. Inaugurated on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to a resurgent India, symbolising our aspirations and commitment to uphold democratic values for the next 150 years. The passing of the Women’s Reservation Bill in this new Parliament is a significant step towards recognising and empowering the invaluable contribution of Nari Shakti in our nation’s governance and progress.

Yet, it is imperative to consider the notion of reservations. While acknowledging the need to empower and include all sections of society, we must also tread carefully, ensuring that reservations do not hinder meritocracy or perpetuate inequalities. Can Bharat think of becoming the world leader by increasingly ignoring meritocracy and extending reservations in various forms? Our beloved country has seen women hold pivotal roles across various spheres without reservations, highlighting the potential and competence of women in almost every field. The role played by women leaders in the success of G20 or women scientists in the success of space missions has been acclaimed. It is indeed a matter of pride that today, the highest office of the President of India is adorned by a woman, Smt. Droupadi Murmu. Recognising gender equality and the prowess of women, PM Modi rightly named the spot where Chandrayaan 3 landed as “Shiv-Shakti”. In a few days from now, we will celebrate Navaratri, a festival to respect and revere Goddess Durga – a symbol of Nari Shakti.

In the domain of Chartered Accountancy field also, women have made significant strides. Currently, over 40 per cent of the student population pursuing CA comprises young women, and their record of acquiring a high number of positions in the Merit Lists is really impressive. Moreover, approximately 28 per cent of CA members are women. These numbers depict a progressive trend where women are not only entering but excelling in the CA profession, showcasing their proficiency and determination.

As we reflect on these monumental achievements and Nari Shakti, we must also remain vigilant about the road ahead. Our progress should be marked by inclusivity, equity and sustainable development. It is our responsibility to ensure that every stride we take benefits all sections of society, leaving no one behind.

To this end, it is important to note that 25th September is celebrated in India as “Antyodaya Diwas” (अंत्योदय दिवस) to mark the birth anniversary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya and remember his life and legacy. Even Mahatma Gandhi’s idea of Sarvodaya (Universal Uplift and Progress for All), was based on Antyodaya – uplifting the poorest of poor.

Let us continue to embrace innovation, collaborate on a global scale and celebrate the indomitable spirit of Bharat as we step into this promising month of October.

Together, let us forge a path to a brighter and more inclusive future, embodying the true essence of ‘Bharat’.

चांद पे उतरे, मंगल को देखा
अब सूरज की बारी है,
हर क्षेत्र में कौशल दिखाती
देखो भारतीय नारी है।।

एक धरती, एक कुटुंब,
एक नियति हमारी है
विश्व को एक करनेवाले,
भारत तेरी बलिहारी है।।