In a remarkable talk delivered at the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani in Rajasthan, India’s Vice-President, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasized the paramount importance of gender justice to the progress of society. He asserted, “Society cannot grow unless justice is ensured for fifty percent of humanity.” His statement beautifully encapsulates the profound socio-economic impact of women empowerment in India and the world at large.
Vice-President: Ensuring Justice for Women and Accelerating Growth in India
Naari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam
Addressing the audience consisting of key members of academia and the student body, Vice-President Dhankhar lauded the passage of the Naari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. The bill, as per his narrative, represents an ‘epochal development,’ affirming the entitlement and recognition of women’s rights. In the cultural framework of the Bharat, its need and urgency could not be overstated.
In his address to the esteemed gathering, Vice-President Dhankhar emphasized the transformative power of the Naari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He underlined that this legislation was not just a mere legal document but a profound societal shift towards gender equality and empowerment. He commended the rigorous efforts made by lawmakers, activists, and scholars in crafting a bill that was not only comprehensive but also sensitive to the unique challenges faced by women across different strata of society. The Vice-President further highlighted that this law marked a significant departure from the past, signifying a forward-thinking and progressive approach to addressing gender disparities.
Vice-President Dhankhar also stressed the importance of academic institutions and the student body in the implementation of the Naari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam. He urged educators, researchers, and students to actively engage with the provisions of the law, fostering an environment of inclusion and empowerment within the academic community. He reiterated that these institutions should not only teach the law but also serve as torchbearers for its principles, working towards creating a society where women can thrive, excel, and contribute their fullest potential to the nation.
Education as a Catalyst for Growth
Dhankhar voiced his belief that education stands as the most ‘effective and impactful’ tool for ameliorating societal conditions, opening doors to growth and progress. Encouraging student involvement in India’s democratic setup, he reminded them of their power to question their representatives and urged active citizen participation in democratic processes. His words delineate the significance of accountability and transparency in modern governance.
Vice-President Dhankhar‘s endorsement of education as a catalyst for growth resonated with the audience, as it underscored the vital role that knowledge plays in fostering development and societal improvement. He emphasized that education is not merely a personal asset but a collective force capable of transforming communities and nations. In a rapidly evolving world, equipping individuals with knowledge and critical thinking skills empowers them to adapt, innovate, and contribute to the overall progress of society. This insight was particularly relevant in an era where the global economy is increasingly driven by knowledge and innovation, making education a fundamental driver of growth and competitiveness.
Furthermore, Vice-President Dhankhar’s call for student involvement in the democratic process was met with enthusiastic support. He recognized the youth as a potent force for change and progress, reminding them of their role in holding elected representatives accountable. His message resonated with a generation increasingly attuned to social and political issues, encouraging them to actively participate in shaping the future of the country. By stressing the importance of accountability and transparency in governance, Dhankhar highlighted the symbiotic relationship between education and effective, responsible governance. Informed and engaged citizens are more likely to demand and contribute to a governance structure that is responsive to the needs of the people, thereby propelling the nation toward growth and development.
Accountability in Democracy
The Vice-President recognized students as agents of change and stakeholders in democracy. He urged them to hold their representatives accountable, emphasizing that every citizen has the right to submit petitions to Parliament. This call for accountability reinforces the vital role of citizens in shaping the democratic process. By actively engaging with their elected officials, individuals can ensure that justice is not just a promise but a reality.
Vice-President Dhankhar’s emphasis on accountability in a democracy serves as a crucial reminder of the fundamental principles that underpin a functioning, healthy democratic system. He underscored the fact that accountability should be a two-way street in a democracy, where both the elected representatives and the electorate share responsibilities. This notion aligns with the core values of transparency, representation, and fairness that are integral to democratic governance.
Furthermore, Vice-President Dhankhar’s encouragement for citizens to submit petitions to Parliament is an empowering call to action. It reflects the idea that democracy is not a passive spectator sport but an active engagement where the people have the right and the duty to question and influence their government’s actions. This democratic accountability extends beyond the act of voting during elections, highlighting the importance of continuous dialogue and oversight by the public, ensuring that elected officials remain responsive to the needs and aspirations of the people they serve.
India’s Global Standing and Leadership
The Vice-President’s address also highlighted India’s global positioning and its role in shaping international diplomacy. He emphasized India’s successful G-20 presidency and the significant inclusion of the African Union as a G-20 member. Furthermore, he recognized the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) as a crucial ‘gamechanger’ under India’s current leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
From ‘Fragile Five’ to ‘Big Five’
India’s economic transformation from being one of the ‘Fragile Five’ to securing a position among the global ‘Big Five’ was a key point in Vice-President Dhankhar’s speech. India’s advancements in financial inclusion and digital transactions have garnered global admiration and positioned the nation as a frontrunner in economic development.
Combating Corruption: A Necessity for Growth
Fighting corruption, labeling it as a ‘killer of democracy and growth,’ Shri Dhankhar stressed the importance of upholding the law and refuting ‘Anti-Bharat narratives.’ Underpinning this was his advocacy for Research and Development, wherein he touched upon the significance of innovation in driving growth and progress. As a testament to the importance he places on education, he announced that five interns from BITS Pilani would assist the Chairman, Rajya Sabha in the upcoming Winter Session of Parliament.
Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar’s passionate speech thus underscores the interconnectedness of justice, democracy, education, and global progress. His vision for India is a robust reminder of the crucial role that every citizen plays in shaping the nation and forwarding its interests on the global stage.
Research and Development: Fostering Innovation
Shri Dhankhar underscored the paramount importance of research and development (R&D) in driving innovation. He recognized the primacy of ideas in paving the way for progress and announced that five interns from BITS Pilani would assist the Chairman, Rajya Sabha, in the forthcoming Winter Session of Parliament. This commitment to R&D and the involvement of young minds highlights India’s dedication to fostering innovation and development.
Conclusion
Vice-President Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar’s address at BITS Pilani serves as a powerful reminder that justice, education, and accountability are the cornerstones of societal growth. India’s achievements on the global stage and its ongoing commitment to combating corruption and fostering innovation reinforce the idea that a just and inclusive society is essential for progress. As we reflect on the Vice-President’s words, let us remember that the journey toward growth and justice is a collective endeavor that requires the active participation of all members of society.
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