President gives Stree Shakti Puraskar to six persons on International Women's Day today

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, President Pranab Mukherjee today presented the Stree Shakti Puraskar to six persons for their distinguished services for the upliftment of women.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Mukherjee said, the women have made significant contributions through their individual efforts to build modern India. He said, as professionals in all walks of life, women have made their mark in the frontiers of science, space exploration and research alike. Making a special mention of the women in agricultural sector, the President described women as the mainstay of India’s food security.

The President said that new legislations must be supported by efficient enforcement mechanisms, saying law alone cannot emancipate women. He stressed the need for a fundamental re-setting of mental and moral make-up, civic sense and social conduct. He called upon people to revive Indian tradition of according due honour and respect to mothers and sisters.

AIR correspondent reports, the Stree Shakti Puraskar carries a cash award of three lakh rupees and a citation. The awards are named after six legendary women of India, Rani Lakshmibai, Rani Rudramma Devi, Kannagi, Rani Gaidinliu Zaliang, Rani Ahilyabai Holkar and Mata Jijabai.

Secretary, Women and Child Development, A K Jain said, the government has adopted several policies and legal measures for the empowerment of women and their welfare.