Ms. Shivani Wagh, Joint Managing Director, Supriya Lifescience Ltd.
On this Women’s Day, it is crucial to recognize that women are not just contributors but also key drivers of India’s economic growth. The Union Budget 2025-26 has acknowledged this by allocating ₹4.49 lakh crore towards gender-focused initiatives—a significant step towards closing gaps in education, skill development, and financial inclusion. While the 37.5% increase in budgetary support is promising, true empowerment will be realized only when these investments lead to sustainable opportunities on the ground.
Women-led entrepreneurship is gaining momentum, with over 14% of Indian enterprises now headed by women. This growth is more than just a statistic—it reflects the resilience and innovation of women in business. However, challenges such as limited access to capital persist, making credit programs and self-employment schemes vital for aspiring women entrepreneurs. Additionally, investments in STEM education and advanced manufacturing are essential to breaking gender barriers in high-value industries.
True empowerment, however, extends beyond policies—it demands a societal shift. Increasing the number of women in leadership roles, promoting workplace inclusivity, and cultivating a mindset that supports equity are as important as financial investments. Initiatives like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana have laid a strong foundation, but the focus must now shift to accelerating these efforts.
As we celebrate Women’s Day, it is time to reflect: Are we building an ecosystem where women can not only join the workforce but also thrive, innovate, and lead? The future of our economy depends on how we respond to this question.