Indian WCD Minister Annapurna Devi on Monday participated in the 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women at the UN headquarters in New York when she said the welfare of women and children is at the core of India's progress.

The session began on Monday.

Annapurna Devi delivered India’s statement at the Ministerial Forum, addressing the priority theme: review and appraisal of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, on its 30th  anniversary, analysing global progress and challenges on the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of women and the full realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

The Minister reaffirmed the Government of India’s unwavering commitment to the empowerment, protection, and holistic development of women and children across the nation.

In her address, the Minister outlined the progress of India on gender equality and addressed the 12 critical areas of concern.

She highlighted the transformative impact of the Indian government's flagship schemes, which have significantly contributed to improving health, nutrition, education, and economic opportunities for women and children.

Rights And Entitlements

Emphasizing the need for strengthened implementation and outreach, the Minister reiterated the government’s resolve to ensure that every woman and girl has access to their rights and entitlements.

"Through a multi-pronged approach, we are working towards a future where every woman is empowered and every child is nurtured in a safe and supportive environment," Devi said.

The session witnessed large-scale participation from all UN member states, intergovernmental organizations, the private sector, philanthropists, academia, civil society, women’s collectives, and UN agencies.

After attending the session, the Minister wrote on X: "Today I feel proud to represent India at @UN Headquarters and to celebrate the power of women and their progress in the country. Under the able leadership of Hon'ble Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi, the women of India have established their unlimited capabilities and potential to the whole world."

CSW Session

CSW is the principal global intergovernmental body exclusively dedicated to the promotion of gender equality, the rights and the empowerment of women.

A functional commission of the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the session will be held till March 21.