Nilokheri / Karnal, March 17- The modern woman is no longer confined merely to the domestic sphere of the home and kitchen. Rather, by excelling on every front of life, she has emerged as a strong cornerstone for the development of both society and the nation. This sentiment was expressed by Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan, Director of the Haryana Institute of Rural Development. He was addressing women belonging to Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as the Chief Guest at the Annual General Meeting of the 'Nari Shakti' Women's Cluster Federation Committee—held under the aegis of the Haryana State Rural Livelihoods Mission—at the Ravidas Temple in Nilokheri today. The program commenced with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan.
Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan urged this Block-level Federation—comprising fifteen thousand women—to achieve something truly remarkable; something that would earn the organization and Nilokheri recognition on a national stage, and perhaps one day even merit a mention by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address. He encouraged the women to move forward with self-confidence, embrace new opportunities, and—through their respective groups—set such exemplary standards that future generations would draw inspiration from them. He emphasized that when women work together in an organized manner and with unwavering resolve, no goal remains impossible to achieve.
Dr. Virender Singh Chauhan stated that the present era is the age of women's empowerment; an era in which, through the medium of Self-Help Groups, women are not only attaining economic self-reliance but are also emerging as pioneers of social change. He reiterated that when women unite and work towards a common objective, they possess the power to transform the landscape—not merely of their own families—but of their entire village and society.
He called upon the women to recognize the latent potential lying within themselves, to step forward with confidence, and to prioritize quality and integrity in all their endeavors. Dr. Chauhan concluded by noting that it is precisely these small, consistent efforts that lay the foundation for monumental change; therefore, every woman should continue to strive diligently at her own level. He encouraged women to acquire digital literacy, pursue self-employment, and leverage government schemes to their fullest potential, stating that this Cluster Federation serves as an empowering platform for women, enabling them to scale new heights. He expressed confidence that this solidarity among women—*Nari Shakti*—would undoubtedly bring about positive societal change and make a significant contribution toward building an 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India).
Referring to the upcoming Hindu New Year, he suggested that on this auspicious occasion, everyone should prepare a sweet dish at home and celebrate the day with their families with great enthusiasm, thereby fostering an atmosphere of positive energy and happiness.
Dr. Chauhan remarked that this platform provided by the Women's Cluster Federation represents a pivotal initiative aimed at making women self-reliant. He emphasized that by working in an organized manner, women would become economically empowered and play a crucial role in the development of their villages.
The event was attended by Neha (District Consultant) and Kulbhushan (FLC, Gharaunda) from the Jal Jeevan Mission; as well as Renu (Block Programme Manager), Satish Kumar, and Anu (DEO) from the Haryana State Rural Livelihoods Mission, Karnal.