Sashakt Nari, Viksit Bharat: Women-Led Development @2047

Over the past decade, India has undertaken a range of initiatives to advance women-led development, reflecting a strategic shift toward development of, by, and for women. Programmes such as Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, the Jan Dhan–Aadhaar–Mobile (JAM) trinity, and Digital India have expanded women’s access to education, finance, employment, and technology, reinforcing the vision of Nari Shakti as a driver of economic and social transformation. While progress is evident in the growing visibility of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and changemakers, deep-rooted socio-economic barriers continue to limit women’s full participation in the economy.

Women constitute only around 30% of India’s labour force and contribute about 18% to GDP, despite increasing participation across agriculture, services, and self-employment. Their economic position remains shaped by social constructions of gender, intersecting with caste, class, ethnicity, and regional diversity. Even progressive social systems, such as matrilineal inheritance among the Khasi tribe, reveal complex power dynamics that both enable and constrain women’s agency. These inequalities are further exacerbated during climate, conflict, and livelihood shocks, where women bear disproportionate burdens.

This conference seeks to move beyond diagnosis toward actionable, interdisciplinary solutions. By highlighting Indian experiences of women-led development and engaging policymakers, scholars, and practitioners, it aims to foster inclusive strategies that strengthen economic equality, political participation, entrepreneurship, and justice—contributing meaningfully to the vision of an equitable Viksit Bharat by 2047.

Event Partner – The Pioneer