SRINAGAR: The Minister of State (MoS) PMO Dr Jitendra Singh said that women from Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly emerging as equal stakeholders in India’s growth story, excelling in competitive examinations, StartUps, Self Help Groups, technology and public service.
The National Commission for Women organised “Shakti Samvaad” — a two-day program with Chairpersons, Members and Member Secretaries of State Women Commissions on 16–17 May 2026 in Srinagar.
Dr. Jitendra Singh presided as the Chief Guest of session. Addressing the gathering, he underscored the importance of coordinated institutional efforts and policy support in advancing women-led development in India. He also emphasised that science and technology are powerful tools for social transformation and can play a pivotal role in improving the lives of women by enhancing access to education, healthcare, entrepreneurship and digital opportunities.
The mainstreaming of J&K under the leadership of PM Narendra Modi has led to a visible aspirational surge among women, marked by rising self-confidence, growing competitiveness and expanding leadership across sectors.
Dr Jitendra Singh said, “J&K has historically produced iconic women personalities such as Lal Ded and Habba Khatoon, who played a significant role in shaping and preserving the composite cultural ethos of Kashmir through literature, spirituality and social influence.”
In the last three decades, however, women in J&K endured enormous social and emotional hardship, with many families suffering irreparable losses. But the improvement in the environment in recent years has created new opportunities for them to reconnect with peers in the rest of the country.
The holding of a national-level women interaction in Srinagar by the NCW, sends out a strong message about the importance being accorded to Jammu & Kashmir and its women power. The “Shakti Samwad” is expected to further catalyse the contribution of women from the region in India’s journey towards 2047”
The programme concluded with a shared commitment among participating State Women Commissions and NCW to strengthen collaboration, improve institutional mechanisms, and further advance the cause of women’s rights, safety and empowerment nationwide.
