category Regional, shimla, , tags Regional, shimla, , DW BUREAU Shimla Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla said that women were playing leading roles in various fields of development and have become an inspiration for others. He said that women s power, which starts from creation to establishing the society, is worthy of respect. She has not only proved herself in the male dominated society but is also leading the society, said Shri Shukla. The Governor was speaking as a Chief Guest at the Nari Shakti Samman Samaroh-2024 here today. Congratulating the women who received awards, the Governor said that this would encourage them to move ahead in all the spheres and motivate them to do better and be a role model for other women. Referring to the convocation ceremonies in various universities, the Governor said that he has often noticed that among the students receiving medals and degrees, the number of girls was more than the boys, which was a matter of pride which makes them extraordinary, may it be the field of education or sports women have been excelling in every field. He said that today the women power of India is setting records of success in every aspect of life with a new strength and new confidence. Expressing concern over the increasing drug abuse in the State, he said that we should make every effort to stop this evil from the society. He said that for this he has made an effort that at the time of admission in universities, students would be required to take an oath of not falling prey to drugs. He said that private universities should also implement this, for the betterment of the society. He said that respect for women has been the basis of our culture. He added that from ancient times to modern India, our history was full of stories of women s contribution. Our history is incomplete without the mention of the contribution of scholars like Gargi, Maitreyi and brave women like Rani Lakshmibai, Ahilyabai Holkar , he said. The Governor said that organizing such a program in Amrit Kaal is relevant. He said that India is the fifth largest economy in the world today and the country is moving towards becoming the third largest economy in the world by the year 2025. The contribution of women was essential in quickly achieving this goal of a developed India. He said that about 50 percent of India s population consists only of women. For the development of the country, this half of the population is needed which is still not empowered and is bound by many social restrictions , he added and said that in such a situation, the Nari Shakti Vandan Act was an important step towards women empowerment and social equality. (editor dailyworld.in)