MAHENDERGARH, 27.11.24-The Central University of Haryana (CUH), Mahendergarh, organized a National Seminar titled Women as Catalysts for Economic Development in Punjab and Haryana: A Step Towards Viksit Bharat @2047. The seminar was sponsored by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), New Delhi. The event was honored by the presence of Prof. Alpana Kateja, Vice Chancellor of the University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, who attended as the chief guest. The seminar was presided over by Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice Chancellor of CUH. The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Surjeet Majumdar from Jawaharlal Nehru University.

The program commenced with a warm welcome extended to the chief guest, Prof. Alpana Kateja, by Dr. Tankeshwar Kumar, Vice Chancellor of CUH. Prof. Ranjan Aneja, Dean of the School of Business and Management Studies, formally welcomed all attendees. Dr. Amandeep Verma provided a comprehensive overview of the event’s objectives and goals, summarizing the seminar's key points effectively. Dr. Rashmi Tanwar introduced the Hon'ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar. In his address, Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar highlighted the importance of education, skill development, and self-help groups in empowering women. He paid tribute to women who have defied societal stereotypes, emphasizing their significant contributions to society and the economy. Prof. Kumar stated that the seminar laid a strong foundation for discussions on the crucial role of women in driving economic development and reaffirmed CUH’s commitment to gender inclusivity and empowerment.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Surjeet Majumdar, elaborated on the complex relationship between gender and economic development. He presented data on asset ownership, women’s participation in productive activities, and their dedication to unpaid services. While acknowledging that India has one of the lowest women’s employment rates globally, he noted positive trends in women's increasing participation, especially within the agriculture sector. Prof. Majumdar called on policymakers to prioritize gender inclusivity in macroeconomic strategies to support balanced development.
The chief guest, Prof. Alpana Kateja, delivered an inspiring address, emphasizing that for India to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat, both men and women must be nurtured equally. She pointed out that women's contribution to GDP is still lower than the global average, raising an important debate on whether empowerment leads to development or if development fosters empowerment. Prof. Kateja advocated for government initiatives aimed at improving women's education, skill development, and financial literacy programs to drive sustainable economic growth. Prof. Sunita Srivastava was present as the chief guest in the valedictory session of the event.
The opening ceremony concluded with a vote of gratitude by Prof. Renu, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics. She expressed sincere thanks to the chief guest, Prof. Alpana Kateja, the patron, Prof. Tankeshwar Kumar, and all other distinguished guests, including Prof. Ranjan Aneja, Dr. Amandeep Verma, and Prof. Sunita Srivastava. Special recognition was given to panelists Prof. (Retd) Neeru Verma, Prof. Dinesh Kumar, Dr. Manoj Kumar, and Prof. Sushila Kumari Soniya, as well as to the technical session chairpersons, students, participants, and the audience who contributed to the event’s success.