06-03-2026 : The Governor, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd), participated as the Chief Guest in a programme organised at Lok Bhavan on Friday on the occasion of International Women’s Day.

Lok Bhavan Uttarakhand-Information Wing
Press Note

Governor Presents “Mahila Kalyan Utkrisht Seva” and “Meri Pehchaan–2026” Awards

Lok Bhavan Dehradun 06 March, 2026

The Governor, Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd), participated as the Chief Guest in a programme organised at Lok Bhavan on Friday on the occasion of International Women’s Day. The event, organised by the Department of Women Welfare as part of the International Women’s Day series, witnessed the Governor presenting the “Mahila Kalyan Utkrisht Seva” and “Meri Pehchaan–2026” awards. (List attached.) Congratulating the awardees, the Governor said that they are a source of inspiration for society.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that in Indian culture, women have always been accorded the highest respect. He stated that in our tradition, women are regarded as symbols of strength, creation, and values. Referring to the message of Guru Nanak Dev Ji — “So kyo manda aakhiye jit jamme rajan”, he said that the one who gives birth to kings can never be considered inferior. He added that International Women’s Day is not merely a celebration but an occasion to recognise women’s dignity, self-worth, and capabilities.

The Governor said that women in Uttarakhand have made remarkable contributions across various fields. In particular, women associated with self-help groups have achieved significant milestones in economic self-reliance through their dedication and determination. He noted that in recent years, the income of women linked with self-help groups has increased considerably, and today they are not only supporting their families but are also generating employment opportunities for others.

The Governor further said that today’s daughters are achieving new heights in education, science, sports, administration, and entrepreneurship. He observed that at university convocation ceremonies, a large number of daughters are winning gold medals and other distinctions, which reflects a positive transformation in society.

He emphasised that on this occasion, society must reaffirm its commitment to ensuring respect, equal opportunities, and encouragement for women so that they can fully utilise their potential and contribute even more significantly to nation-building.

Addressing the programme, Minister for Women and Child Development Smt. Rekha Arya said that International Women’s Day symbolises the journey of women from struggle to recognition and respect. She noted that many women and girls in society face difficult circumstances, yet their courage and perseverance enable them to earn dignity and identity.

Smt. Rekha Arya further said that the government is continuously working to empower women and make them self-reliant through various policies and initiatives. She highlighted that the struggles of women and girls who have had limited family or social support are particularly inspiring, as they have achieved a dignified place in society through their own efforts.

The programme was attended by First Lady Smt. Gurmit Kaur, Chairperson of the State Women Commission Smt. Kusum Kandwal, Chairperson of the State Commission for Protection of Child Rights Dr. Geeta Khanna, Secretary to the Governor Shri Ravinath Raman, Legal Advisor to the Governor Shri Kaushal Kishore Shukla, Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development Shri Chandresh Kumar Yadav, Additional Secretary to the Governor Smt. Reena Joshi, Director Shri B. L. Rana, Chief Probation Officer Smt. Anjana Gupta, Deputy Chief Probation Officer Shri Rajiv Nayan, along with officials and staff of the Directorate of Women Welfare, girls from various institutions, and other dignitaries.