Mohali, March 18: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday called for a paradigm shift in the role of women in society, asserting that those who efficiently manage homes and families should also take the reins of the country. Speaking at a felicitation event for grassroots entrepreneurs in Mohali, the Chief Minister maintained that real empowerment lies in education, political representation, and economic opportunity. He urged women to break traditional barriers and step into decision-making roles to help reshape the state’s future.
The Chief Minister affirmed that the state government is leaving no stone unturned to support this cause, noting that girls have already outnumbered boys in almost every academic and professional field. He declared that politics should no longer be considered a male fiefdom and emphasized that women’s participation is essential to strengthening democracy at the grassroots level. Mann asserted that by exercising their vote carefully, women can ensure the right leaders are elected to the Assembly and Parliament to make Punjab a progressive state.
Underlining the AAP government’s track record, the Chief Minister stated that Punjab has seen a major shift in governance with the highest-ever appointment of women as Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police. He maintained that 33% reservation in government jobs and 50% reservation in local bodies have ensured that women are active partners in administration. The Chief Minister declared that no temporary concessions can eliminate poverty; instead, quality education is the only sustainable way to improve living standards.
On the occasion, 100 top-performing women entrepreneurs from 23 districts were honored under the Punjab State Rural Livelihood Mission, each receiving ₹25,000 and a certificate. AAP Punjab Prabhari Manish Sisodia affirmed that for the first time, women from common families are being recognized as nation builders. The Chief Minister concluded by maintaining that with initiatives like free travel, healthcare coverage, and the upcoming Maavan Dhian Satkar Yojana, the government is providing the logistical support necessary for every woman to become self-reliant.
