Hyderabad, Dec.22 (Hydnow): Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan on Tuesday stated that women’s role is vital in achieving the goal of Atma Nirbhar Bharat, the self-reliant India.
She said that it was disheartening to find that the women’s representation was less than 20% among the total entrepreneurs in our country. Similarly, women constitute less than 15 per cent of the scientists in the country.
“If all the women who are not into remunerative work enter the workforce, our country will be at least 27 per cent richer. It will lead to equal, equitable and inclusive society,” she added.
The Governor, as the chief guest, was virtually addressing the inaugural of the “Women Entrepreneurs’ and Scientists’ Conclave” at the India International Science Festival (IISF), organized by the CSIR-NEERI, New Delhi.
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Union women and child development minister Smriti Irani was the guest of honour at the inaugural. Elaborating on the importance of promoting entrepreneurship among women in our country, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan stated that women- owned enterprises have the potential to create150- 170 million new jobs. They have the capability to transform the employment in the country.
“Women’s equality and closing the gender gap are likely to help the country’s GDP gain 16 per cent by 2025. Such is the huge relevance and importance of women’s equality,” she said.
The Governor suggested special provisions, increased funding, and the creation of exclusive institutions to promote entrepreneurship among women in our country.
Referring to the grim scenario that women constitute only 14 per cent of the total scientific community in the country, Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan stated that women’s participation in science, technology and research will promote innovation at all levels. It contributes to the goal of India as Knowledge Superpower.
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The Governor called for increased seats for women in engineering and technical institutions and more number of fellowships to encourage women scientists.
Ministry of Science and Technology secretary Dr. Renu Swarup, CSIR director general Dr. Shekhar C. Mande, NEERI director Dr. Rakesh Kumar, and IISF principal coordinator Dr. Atya Kalpley were among others who spoke at the inaugural.
A host of women entrepreneurs and scientists from across the country were part of the three-day long conclave. (Hydnow)
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