Addressing the Matri Shakti Samman 2026 ceremony organized by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) here today, the Governor said that both the Central and Haryana Governments are continuously working to strengthen the social, economic and educational empowerment of women. He said that inclusive development can only be achieved when women from all sections of society are provided equal opportunities to progress and succeed.

The event was organized to honour women achievers from diverse fields who have made remarkable contributions to society through their excellence, dedication and leadership. A total of 40 women achievers were felicitated during the programme. First Lady of Haryana Smt. Mitra Ghosh, Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini, Smt. Suman Saini, wife of the Chief Minister, and Haryana Vidhan Sabha Speaker Sh. Harvinder Kalyan also graced the occasion.

Congratulating all the awardees, Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh said that their inspiring journeys serve as a source of motivation for society and a matter of pride for the nation. He remarked that India’s journey towards development and progress cannot be completed without the full and meaningful participation of women. “Whenever a woman rises, a family rises. When a family rises, a community rises. And when communities rise, the nation rises,” he said.

The Governor described the honoured women as beacons of inspiration for millions of young girls who aspire to achieve their dreams. He called upon society to collectively work towards creating an environment where every girl receives equal opportunities, every woman is empowered to realize her full potential, and every mother is accorded the dignity and respect she deserves.

*Women are equal partners in nation-building; Active Participation of Women Key to Viksit Bharat - CM Nayab Singh Saini*

Speaking on the occasion, Haryana Chief Minister Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that women are not merely beneficiaries of government schemes but are equal partners and driving forces in the nation's journey towards development and progress.

Describing women as the strongest pillar of a Viksit Bharat, the Chief Minister said that Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi has identified four key pillars—women, farmers, youth, and the poor—for realizing the vision of a developed nation. Among these, women constitute an exceptionally strong pillar. Prime Minister's resolve to build a developed India can only be realized through the active participation and leadership of women.

He said that the event was not merely a ceremonial function but a celebration of the strength, determination, and achievements of Matrishakti. It is an occasion to honour women who have overcome numerous challenges and carved a distinct identity for themselves through their perseverance, dedication, and excellence in diverse fields.

*Women Achievers Are Inspiring a New Generation Through Their Talent and Leadership*

Congratulating the awardees, the Chief Minister said that the women being honoured today are inspiring society through their talent, hard work, and leadership. Their achievements are not only a matter of pride but also a source of motivation for countless other women and young girls aspiring to achieve their dreams.

Sh. Nayab Singh Saini said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Sh. Narendra Modi, the country is witnessing a new era of women-led development. Today, women are excelling in every sphere of life, from education and entrepreneurship to science, sports, administration, and public service.

*Haryana Government Committed to Women's Safety Empowerment*

He said that the Haryana Government is committed to ensuring the safety, education, healthcare, and economic empowerment of women and has taken several initiatives to provide them with greater opportunities and a conducive environment for growth and self-reliance.

The Chief Minister said that all the women achievers honoured at the event have scaled new heights of success and serve as role models for society. Their accomplishments encourage millions of women to move forward with confidence and determination.

Secretary to the Governor Sh. Vijaykumar Bhavikatti, ADC to the Governor Sh. Dheeraj Setia, representatives from PHDCCI Sh Karan Gilhotra, Himani Arora, Meetu Puri and others were also present on this occasion.