The Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) successfully hosted a thought-provoking conference on Women Empowerment in New Delhi under the theme “Celebrating Womanhood: Empower, Educate, Elevate.” The event brought together distinguished leaders and advocates, emphasizing the necessity of empowering women to drive societal progress.

While speaking at the conference Mridula Pradhan, Chairperson of Vikas Foundation Trust, emphasized the dignity and respect of women, quoting a Sanskrit shloka: “Where women are respected, divine blessings follow.” She advocated for true gender equality, urging that the slogan ‘Beti-Beta Ek Saman’ must be implemented in all spheres of life. Pradhan also stressed the importance of protecting women’s rights, particularly reproductive rights.

Former Union Minister Smriti Irani addressed the gathering, highlighting the strength of Indian women in overcoming challenges, particularly during the pandemic. She noted that the Modi government has taken significant steps toward financial inclusion for women by providing bank accounts and loans, which women have successfully leveraged, leading to low non-performing assets. However, she pointed out that “the digital world remains biased against women, and addressing this challenge is crucial.”

Mallika Nadda, Chairperson of Special Olympics Bharat, reaffirmed that “Women’s rights are non-negotiable, and their dignity must be protected at all costs.” She emphasized the additional challenges faced by physically challenged women and called for prioritizing their inclusion and support.

Dr Upasana Arora, Conference Chair, Executive Council Member of IACC, and Managing Director of Yashoda Super Specialty Hospitals, underscored the pivotal role of women in societal transformation. She stated, “Empowerment of women is essential for social upliftment. Women who are empowered must extend support to those who are not, creating opportunities for excellence. When women are empowered, society as a whole is empowered.”

Dr Atul Chauhan, Regional President of IACC and Chancellor of Amity University, in his inaugural address, called upon all attendees to actively participate in the mission of women’s empowerment, echoing the sentiment that “Women have to be empowered to dream.”

Dr Lalit Bhasin, Past National President of IACC, provided a compelling perspective, asserting that Indian women have always been powerful. “When we say ‘empower women,’ we imply that someone else has to do it. However, Indian women have historically shaped societies with their resilience and determination,” he remarked.

Recognising Women Leaders

The conference culminated in an awards ceremony celebrating exceptional women leaders who have made remarkable contributions across various sectors:

Women Leader of the Year Award: Dr. Amit Chauhan, Chairperson, Amity Group of Schools

Excellence in Educational Leadership Award: Charu Modi, Director, Godfrey Phillips India Limited

Leadership in Gender Equality and Advocacy Award: Nina Gupta, Managing Partner, Bhasin & Co. Advocates

Entrepreneur in Food Industry Award: Shaweta Seth, Director, GD Foods Mfg Ltd

Legal Excellence Award: Gunita Pahwa, Joint Managing Partner, S&A Law Offices

Pioneer in Women’s Empowerment & Industrial Growth: Ritu Agrawal, Promoter and Stakeholder Superior Group of companies

Journalism Excellence Award - Ritu Sarin Indian Journalist

Excellence in CSR for Women's Empowerment - Aneeta Chauhan CSR Chairperson, Radico Khaitan Limited

Environmental lawyer of the year - Vanita Bhargava Partner, Khaitan & Co LLP

Outstanding Social Work - Uttar Pradesh - Namrata Pathak Social worker

Promoting Craft Revivalist and Textile Conservationist - Asha Gupta Founder and Creative Director, Asha Gautam

Excellence in ESG Law & Gender Equity - Petal Chandhok Partner, Trust Legal

Speed Queen International Award - Ms Humaira Mushtaq, First Woman International Racing Champion from India