14-03-2026:Address by the Hon’ble Governor at the “Women Entrepreneurs – Rising Stars” Felicitation Ceremony organized by the COWE

Jai Hind!

It is a matter of great joy, pride, and inspiration for me to be present among you at this dignified felicitation ceremony dedicated to women’s power. Today’s occasion is not merely a ceremony of honor; it is a celebration of women’s creativity, strength, courage, and leadership that are bringing positive change to society through their work, talent, and determination.

In Indian civilization and culture, women have always been regarded as the source of creation, strength, and inspiration. Our scriptures say:
“Yatra Naryastu Pujyante, Ramante Tatra Devata.”
This means that where women are respected, prosperity, harmony, and divinity reside. This is not merely an ideal statement but a reflection of the deep cultural consciousness of Indian society.

Today’s ceremony is a living example of this spirit, where we are honoring inspiring women who, through their talent, innovation, and entrepreneurship, have not only established themselves but have also opened new avenues of opportunities for society.

The “Fem Preneur Rising Stars Felicitation Ceremony 2026”, organized by the Confederation of Women Entrepreneurs (COWE), celebrates the indomitable courage, perseverance, and leadership of women who, through their determination and confidence, are giving a new direction to positive transformation in society.

Today, India is moving rapidly on the path of change and progress. In this journey of development, the women of India are playing an important role with new energy, awareness, and leadership. The modern Indian woman is not only the backbone of her family but has also become a powerful driver of the nation’s economic growth and social transformation.

In this context, a profound thought of Swami Vivekananda comes to mind:
“The best measure of a nation’s progress is the condition of its women.”
This reminds us that true development of society and the nation becomes possible only when women are given opportunities, respect, and equal participation.

Be it education, science, technology, administration, sports, arts, industry, or entrepreneurship—there is no field where women have not achieved new heights through their talent, hard work, and determination. Breaking social stereotypes and traditional barriers, they have proved that when given opportunities and trust, women can provide exceptional leadership in every sphere.

Women entrepreneurship is today emerging as a powerful foundation for building an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India). When women establish enterprises, they not only create opportunities for themselves but also generate employment, skills, and economic opportunities for many families. Their efforts promote innovation, self-reliance, and inclusive growth, while also accelerating the nation’s economic progress.

As India moves toward the goal of Developed India @2047, the role of women’s power becomes extremely significant. In fact, the dream of a developed India can only be realized through the strength, talent, and leadership of women. When women move forward in education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership, they give new momentum and direction to national progress. Therefore, women’s empowerment is not only a social necessity but also the foundation of a developed and self-reliant India.

I am pleased to know that institutions like the Confederation of Women Entrepreneurs (COWE) are providing training, guidance, and opportunities for women to move forward in the field of entrepreneurship. Established in 2004, this organization has today become a strong national platform, connecting thousands of women entrepreneurs across the country.

The women of Devbhoomi Uttarakhand have always played an inspiring role in maintaining harmony between nature, culture, and society. The maternal strength of this land has always guided society with its hard work, patience, and indomitable courage. Even amidst the difficult conditions of mountain life, they have demonstrated remarkable ability by maintaining balance with family, society, and nature. Women here have played a crucial role in agriculture, handicrafts, self-help groups, small industries, and the promotion of local products.

Today, the women of Uttarakhand are giving new identity to organic products, handicrafts, and traditional arts through the “Vocal for Local” movement. This effort is not only important for women’s empowerment but is also giving new momentum to the state’s economy.

The inspiring women being honored today are remarkable examples of excellence, innovation, and social contribution in their respective fields. Through their hard work, determination, and leadership, they have proven that when women move forward with confidence and talent, they do not just write their own success stories but also create a new chapter of inspiration for society.

Their achievements clearly show that when women move forward with determination, talent, and self-confidence, they become a force that propels the entire society forward.

The emerging women entrepreneurs being honored today are not just successful business leaders but also powerful agents of positive change in society. Their dedication, innovation, and leadership will serve as a guiding inspiration for future generations.

I would especially like to congratulate Mrs. Meetu Puri and the COWE Uttarakhand Chapter for this commendable initiative. Under her leadership and efforts, this platform is providing opportunities, guidance, and recognition to women and inspiring them to move forward in entrepreneurship.

I firmly believe that women’s empowerment is not only a women’s issue; it is a collective responsibility of the entire society. When families, society, industry, academia, and governance work together to provide women with opportunities, resources, and encouragement, true empowerment becomes possible.

Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, women’s empowerment has been given priority in national development. Initiatives such as MUDRA Yojana, Start-up India, Stand-up India, and the strengthening of Self-Help Groups have provided entrepreneurial opportunities to millions of women. In addition, digital platforms, e-commerce, and technological innovations have opened new possibilities for women to reach global markets from their homes, enabling them to move rapidly toward economic self-reliance.

Today, it is necessary for more industrialists, policymakers, educators, and social leaders to join this mission. If we collectively provide opportunities for women’s talent and abilities to flourish, we will surely build a strong, inclusive, and progressive society.

In conclusion, I would like to say that when women are empowered, it is not just an individual who becomes strong, but the entire family, society, and nation. Women are not only the force of creation but also the greatest driving force of change and progress. An empowered woman is the true foundation of a strong society and a strong nation.

Today, we must create an environment where every daughter receives equal opportunities for education, every woman is assured of dignity and safety, and every woman is provided with the resources and platforms needed to realize her dreams.

Let us all take a pledge to promote women’s dignity, self-reliance, and leadership, and build an India that is inclusive, compassionate, and progressive. This is the path that will lead us to a strong society, a self-reliant economy, and the goal of a developed India.

With this hope and belief, I congratulate all the women being honored today and wish them a bright future. With these words, I conclude my address.

Long live women’s power! Vande Mataram! Jai Hind!