“Town Hall of Women held in Shimla on Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam; wide deliberations on women’s empowerment”

“Massive participation in Padayatra reflects strong support for 33% reservation for women”

“Nation-building is incomplete without women’s participation: Jairam Thakur”

“Daisy Thakur: This is not just an event, but the beginning of a women’s rights movement”

“Education, safety and leadership key to empowering women: Speakers”

Shimla,
A grand and successful programme comprising the “Town Hall of Women” and a Padayatra in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was organised in Shimla on April 15, 2026, under the leadership of Mahila Morcha President Daisy Thakur, in collaboration with Nari Shakti Forum and various social organisations (NGOs).
The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of women, youth, intellectuals and social workers, giving it the character of a strong mass movement.
The programme commenced with the Town Hall of Women at Hotel Dhruv, Circular Road, where meaningful and in-depth discussions were held on critical issues including women’s rights, education, safety, leadership and the significance of 33% reservation in politics.
Addressing the gathering, Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur said that while the role of women in India is continuously strengthening, the time has now come to ensure their equal participation in policy-making and decision-making processes. He described the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a historic step that will accelerate the nation’s overall development.
He added that the long-standing aspiration of millions of women across the country is now nearing fulfilment, and the sense of enthusiasm among women is clearly visible. Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said that this Act is a continuation of a comprehensive vision aimed at empowering women at every stage of life—from birth, education and safety to self-reliance and leadership.
“This is Modi’s guarantee being fulfilled on the ground,” he said.
Mahila Morcha President Daisy Thakur stated that the programme marks the beginning of a wider movement for ensuring women’s rights, dignity and participation.
“This is not merely an event; it is the beginning of a people’s movement for women’s empowerment. ‘Respect for women is the identity of a new India’ is not just a slogan but a commitment,” she said.
Keynote speaker Dr. Poornima Chauhan (Retd. IAS) highlighted the significant rise in women’s participation in education, administration and leadership roles. She noted that societal attitudes towards the girl child are changing positively, reflected in improved gender ratios and increased enrolment of women in higher education.
“The implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam will further accelerate this progress,” she said.
Professor Minakshi Paul emphasised that education is the strongest foundation for women’s empowerment. She pointed out the steady rise in female participation at secondary and higher education levels, calling for equal opportunities for every girl.
NGO leader Vandana Bhagra stressed the need for collective societal effort to empower women. She said that equal opportunities and social support are essential for enabling women to progress.
Businesswoman Renu Baljees highlighted that while women are becoming economically independent, ensuring their safety and dignity remains equally important.
“A safe and secure environment is crucial for women to contribute confidently to society and the economy,” she said.
The discussions also focused on women’s health, safety, education and economic empowerment, with speakers noting that various initiatives have strengthened institutional support systems, boosting women’s confidence and participation.
Later, a Padayatra in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam was taken out from Hotel Dhruv to CTO, Shimla, drawing significant participation and showcasing collective support for women’s rights and political representation.
In her concluding remarks, Daisy Thakur thanked all participants and said that the movement will continue to expand in the coming time. She called upon citizens to join hands in building a “strong woman, strong society, and a prosperous India.”