Raipur April 30, 2026/In a special session of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, presenting a resolution in support of the Nari Shakti Vandan Act, stated that ensuring one-third reservation for women in Parliament and all legislative assemblies is an extremely important step for the respect, overall development, and empowerment of women. He said that this initiative will not only strengthen women’s participation in democratic institutions but will also provide new energy towards equal opportunities and balanced representation in society. The Chief Minister expressed confidence that such efforts will empower half of the country’s population with a strong role in the decision-making process, making development more inclusive and effective.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai said that the sacred land of Chhattisgarh is the land of Mata Shabari, Maa Dantewshwari, and Maa Mahamaya, where women have always been respected as Shakti (power). He said that in Indian culture, women are not just deserving of respect, but are the foundation of creation and strength. The Shakti that we worship during Navratri is the same Shakti that exists in society in the form of mothers.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the verse mentioned in our scriptures, “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu Matri-rupena Samsthita…” is not just a shloka but the core element of the Indian philosophy of life. He said that on the land of Chhattisgarh, luminaries like Bhakta Mata Karma, Teejan Bai, Usha Barle have taken the state’s identity to national and international levels with their talent and dedication. He also cited the contributions of warrior queens like Rani Lakshmibai, Rani Durgavati, and Avantibai as sources of inspiration. In the modern era, women like Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams have enhanced the country’s pride globally.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the expansion of women’s participation and representation in the democratic system is essential for the overall development of society. He said that considering the expansion of the scope of work for public representatives and population growth, it is important to periodically consider systemic reforms and balance, so that the governance system can become more effective and aligned with public concerns.
He said that in the past years, many important initiatives have been taken in the country towards the respect, health, safety, and economic empowerment of women. Through schemes in areas such as sanitation, health, financial inclusion, education, and security, positive changes have been observed in the standard of living of women. These efforts have played a significant role in strengthening women’s dignity and self-reliance.
The Chief Minister said that special priority is being given to women’s empowerment in Chhattisgarh. The year 2026 is being celebrated as “Matari Gaurav Varsh” (Mother’s Pride Year), with the aim of respecting the contribution of MatriShakti and encouraging their all-round development. He informed that through various schemes, women are being provided with financial assistance, self-employment opportunities, and social security.
He said that special efforts are being made to deliver the benefits of schemes to women even in remote and challenging areas. This has not only improved their standard of living but has also enabled them to connect more strongly with the mainstream of society.
Chief Minister said that work is being done towards making women self-reliant through schemes related to housing, drinking water, livelihood, and self-employment. A large number of women are becoming economically empowered today through self-help groups and other activities, which is a sign of positive change in society.
He said that the active participation of women in Panchayati Raj institutions is a strong example of strengthening democracy. A large number of women are leading as public representatives and playing an important role in local development.
Chief Minister said that positive initiatives are being taken at various levels to empower women in families and society, enabling them to play a more effective role in the decision-making process.
At the end of his address, Chief Minister Shri Sai said that the empowerment of MatriShakti is not just a matter of policy but the foundation for the overall development of society. He called upon all sections of society to work with cooperation and sensitivity in this direction, so that an egalitarian, strong, and prosperous society can be built.
