New Delhi: During a panel discussion on “Empowering Women as Entrepreneurs and Leaders” at the World Bank’s spring meetings, World Bank President David Malpass commended the efforts of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the country’s massive program to empower women. Malpass said that the world is making significant strides in women’s empowerment, and he praised India’s efforts, particularly those of Prime Minister Modi, who he said is deeply interested and concerned about the issue.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who was also part of the panel, explained in detail the steps that the Modi government has taken to economically empower women in India. She emphasized the importance of skilling programs, legislative support, and providing paid maternity leave for women. Sitharaman also pointed out that many private sector companies are benefiting from the skilled set of women who are willing to work and contribute to their companies success.
Malpass highlighted the importance of enabling women to have digital transactions without having to visit banks and the empowerment that women can gain from learning how other women operate in other parts of the world. He also praised India’s skilling programs, saying that they are providing immediate employment opportunities for women who have been trained in useful skills.
Sitharaman said that STEM fields are attracting a growing number of women, but their employability is not as good as it could be. She called for more legislative support to encourage women to enter the workforce and for companies to recognize that women who have been trained and empowered are far more productive and can significantly benefit their organizations.
The panel discussion highlighted the critical importance of women’s empowerment, and the speakers emphasized that everyone should be part of the movement to empower women worldwide. The World Bank’s program in India is a massive step forward in this regard, and with continued efforts and support, women worldwide can achieve economic empowerment, leadership positions, and the ability to shape their futures.