Mangaluru: MLA Bhagirathi Murulya has described the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam as a historic milestone in India’s democratic journey, asserting that it will significantly enhance women’s participation in governance and policy-making.

Addressing a press conference at the Dakshina Kannada BJP office on Wednesday, Bhagirathi Murulya said the proposed amendments to the Act, expected during the special session of Parliament beginning April 16, would further strengthen women’s active role in the democratic process. She emphasised that reserving one-third of seats for women in the Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assemblies is not merely about increasing representation, but about enabling meaningful participation in decision-making.

Push for greater representation in governance

Murulya noted that the legislation reflects a broader commitment to inclusive governance by ensuring women have a stronger voice in shaping policies. According to her, the move will create opportunities for women leaders to emerge across political levels, thereby improving the quality of democratic discourse.

She added that empowering women politically would have a cascading effect on social and economic development, as women leaders are more likely to prioritise issues related to education, healthcare, and community welfare.

Vision of women-led development

Highlighting the leadership of Narendra Modi, Murulya said the vision of women-led development is central to India’s growth trajectory. She stated that the effective implementation of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam would play a crucial role in realising this vision and accelerating national progress.

Murulya pointed out that the government’s focus has increasingly shifted towards creating an enabling environment where women can actively contribute to nation-building beyond traditional roles.

Key schemes driving empowerment

The MLA also cited several flagship initiatives launched under the Central government aimed at improving the socio-economic status of women. Among them, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana were highlighted as key programmes promoting education and financial security for girls.

She further referred to Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana and Poshan 2.0 as initiatives focused on maternal health and nutrition.

Providing data on financial inclusion, Murulya said that under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, approximately 32.29 crore women have been brought into the formal banking system. Additionally, women constitute nearly 68 per cent of beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, indicating growing participation in entrepreneurship.

Expanding opportunities in technology and livelihoods

Murulya also spoke about emerging initiatives such as Lakhpati Didi and Namo Drone Didi, which aim to equip women with skills in technology and income generation.

She added that welfare schemes like Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Swachh Bharat Mission, and Jal Jeevan Mission have significantly reduced the daily burden on women by improving access to clean fuel, sanitation, and water.

Leaders present at the event

Several BJP leaders and office-bearers were present at the press meet, including state executive member Sulochana G K Bhat, Mahila Morcha state general secretary Shilpa Suvarna, state secretary Shwetha Poojari, district president Manjula Rao, and district general secretaries Sandhya Venkatesh and Lakhita Shetty.

Conclusion

Murulya’s remarks underscore the growing political focus on women’s empowerment through structural reforms and welfare initiatives. As the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam moves towards implementation, its impact on increasing women’s representation in governance is expected to shape a more inclusive and participatory democratic framework in India.