AUG 07: Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Smt. Annpurna Devi, inaugurated the second edition of UN Women’s flagship capacity-building initiative — SheLeads II: Workshop for Women Leaders — in the national capital today. The two-day workshop aims to empower grassroots women leaders, elected representatives, and administrators from across the country with essential leadership and governance skills.
Organized by the UN Women India Country Office, the workshop comes at a significant time following the enactment of the Women’s Reservation Act, 2023, which ensures 33% reservation for women in the Lok Sabha and State Assemblies. With women currently holding just 14% of seats in the 18th Lok Sabha, such initiatives are critical for closing the representation gap and promoting inclusive governance.
In her address, Smt. Annpurna Devi said, “Women’s leadership is not just about representation — it is central to achieving women-led development for a Viksit Bharat. Initiatives like SheLeads are pivotal in equipping women with the skills and networks needed to lead from the front.”
Her Excellency Ms. May-Elin Stener, Ambassador of Norway to India, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Norway’s commitment to supporting inclusive governance. “Initiatives like SheLeads are essential to turning policy into progress,” she stated.
This year’s edition received over 260 applications from 22 states, with 36 women leaders selected through a rigorous process based on their experience and potential. Over two days, participants will engage with Members of Parliament, policy experts, and media professionals on topics including electoral strategy, governance structures, public speaking, and media engagement.
Ms. Kanta Singh, Country Representative a.i., UN Women India, highlighted that true political inclusion is essential for building a developed India. “Women leaders are not just change-makers — they shape policies that reflect the aspirations of all citizens,” she said.
